Looking for a delicious, plant-based twist on a classic Italian favorite? Dive into the world of "Easy Vegan Eggplant Parmesan Quinoa," where layers of tender roasted eggplant meet fluffy quinoa and rich marinara sauce, all topped with melty vegan mozzarella. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also packs a nutritious punch, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, sliced
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your eggplant slices roast perfectly and your dish cooks evenly.
- Prepare the quinoa by rinsing it under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness and ensures a fluffier texture. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the eggplant. Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
- After 10 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with another towel. Brush both sides of each slice lightly with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and slightly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Once the eggplant is done roasting, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the quinoa mixture on the bottom, followed by half of the roasted eggplant slices. Sprinkle half of the vegan mozzarella cheese over the eggplant. Repeat the layers with the remaining quinoa mixture, eggplant, and top with the remaining vegan mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and the cheese to melt. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit. Serve warm and enjoy your Easy Vegan Eggplant Parmesan Quinoa!
Tips
- Prepping the Eggplant: Don’t skip the salting step! Allowing the eggplant to sit with salt for 10 minutes helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Quinoa Perfection: Rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness. For an extra flavor boost, consider cooking it in vegetable broth instead of water.
- Layering for Success: When layering your dish, make sure to evenly distribute the quinoa and eggplant to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cheese Melting Magic: For an even cheesier topping, try mixing in a bit of nutritional yeast with your vegan mozzarella for added flavor and nutrients.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow your dish to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.
- Customize Your Marinara: Feel free to spice up your marinara sauce with additional herbs or spices, such as crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance! Assemble the layers and store in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful vegan dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 221kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
