**Stuffed Eggplant Millefeuille: A Deliciously Unique Twist on a Classic**
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both visually stunning and incredibly tasty, look no further than stuffed eggplant millefeuille. This dish combines layers of tender eggplant with a flavorful filling for a unique twist on the traditional French “millefeuille.” Instead of pastry layers, thin slices of eggplant serve as the base, creating an elegant and delicious main course or appetizer. It’s the perfect dish for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with something out of the ordinary.
### What Makes Stuffed Eggplant Millefeuille Special?
1. **Elegant Presentation**: The layered arrangement gives this dish a sophisticated look that will impress anyone at the table.
2. **Versatile and Customizable**: You can experiment with different fillings and cheeses to suit your preferences.
3. **Healthy and Flavorful**: Eggplant is a nutrient-rich vegetable that adds a wonderful flavor and texture to the dish.
4. **Perfect for Various Occasions**: Serve it as a starter, side dish, or even a main course for a vegetarian option.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
– Tomato sauce, for serving (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
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### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### 1. Prepare the Eggplants
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. You’ll need an even number of slices to form layers.
– Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
– Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the slices are tender but not too soft.
#### 2. Make the Filling
– In a bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
– Stir until the ingredients are well combined, forming a creamy filling.
#### 3. Assemble the Millefeuille
– On a clean baking sheet or oven-safe dish, place one slice of roasted eggplant. Spread a spoonful of the filling evenly over the slice.
– Top with another slice of eggplant, then add more filling. Repeat this process to create several layers, finishing with a slice of eggplant on top.
– For individual servings, you can create smaller stacks using three to four slices per millefeuille.
#### 4. Bake to Perfection
– Once assembled, bake the eggplant millefeuille in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
#### 5. Serve
– Optionally, spoon some warm tomato sauce onto each plate and place the eggplant millefeuille on top.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a final touch.
### Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Eggplant Millefeuille
– **Uniform Slices**: Make sure the eggplant slices are even in thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
– **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh basil and high-quality cheeses will enhance the flavor of the dish.
– **Try Different Cheeses**: Experiment with feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese for a different taste profile.
– **Let It Rest Before Serving**: Allow the millefeuille to sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up, making it easier to slice.
### Variations to Try
– **Mediterranean Style**: Add olives, capers, or roasted red peppers to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
– **Meat Option**: For a non-vegetarian version, add some cooked ground meat, such as Italian sausage or seasoned beef, into the layers.
– **Vegan Adaptation**: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a tofu-based ricotta for a plant-based version.
### Serving Suggestions
– **As a Starter**: Serve smaller stacks as a sophisticated appetizer.
– **Main Course**: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete vegetarian meal.
– **Side Dish**: Accompany grilled meat or fish with this flavorful and unique side.
### Conclusion
**Stuffed Eggplant Millefeuille** is a delightful dish that combines the delicate flavors of roasted eggplant with a creamy, cheesy filling. The layered presentation adds elegance to any meal, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want to elevate your everyday dinner. With its flexibility in ingredients and serving options, this dish can easily become a favorite at your table. Try it out and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures!
