There’s something undeniably magical about Mediterranean cuisine—the way it blends simple, fresh ingredients to create bold and satisfying flavors. This Mediterranean Eggplant Bake is a perfect example of that harmony. Layers of roasted eggplant soak up a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, and briny Kalamata olives, while crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy contrast. Baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping, this dish is as comforting as it is wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a cozy vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this eggplant bake will transport your taste buds straight to the shores of Greece.
What You’ll Need for This Mediterranean Eggplant Bake
Creating this dish is simple, and you probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Eggplant:
- 1 large eggplant (or 2 small), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Tomato & Olive Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mediterranean Eggplant Bake
With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together beautifully. Follow along and get ready to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired feast!
1. Roast the Eggplant
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn soft and slightly golden.
2. Prepare the Tomato & Olive Sauce
While the eggplant is roasting, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the sliced Kalamata olives, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Bake
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In an 8×8 baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the roasted eggplant slices on top. Sprinkle with half of the feta and mozzarella cheese.
Add another layer of sauce, followed by the remaining eggplant slices. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) for an irresistible golden crust.
4. Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. The aroma will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy Greek taverna!
5. Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Leftovers? No Problem! Here’s How to Store & Reheat
One of the best things about this dish is how well it holds up for leftovers. If you’re lucky enough to have any left, here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well! Just wrap tightly (without the cheese topping) and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results, or microwave in short bursts.
Once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on the deep, satisfying flavors of this Mediterranean Eggplant Bake. The roasted eggplant soaks up the garlicky tomato sauce, the olives add a touch of saltiness, and the feta brings that unmistakable tang. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant—perfect for any occasion.
Serve it alongside a crisp Greek salad, warm pita bread, or even a glass of wine for the ultimate Mediterranean dining experience. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a next-day leftover, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. So, grab your ingredients and let’s bring a little taste of Greece into your kitchen tonight! Kali Orexi!
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