Vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan Sandwiches

You’ll love these vegetarian eggplant parmesan sandwiches, a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Start by slicing eggplant into rounds, then coat them in beaten eggs and seasoned breadcrumbs. Bake the breaded eggplant until crispy, then assemble your sandwiches with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your choice of bread. For extra flavor, try salting the eggplant beforehand or using fresh mozzarella. You can easily customize these sandwiches with variations like adding pesto or grilling the eggplant for a smoky taste. With a good balance of protein, fiber, and nutrients, these sandwiches offer a satisfying meal option. Discover more ways to elevate this tasty vegetarian dish.

Recipe and Preparation

Eggplant Parmesan Sandwiches

These delectable vegetarian sandwiches combine the classic flavors of eggplant parmesan with the convenience of handheld eating. Crispy baked eggplant slices are layered with tangy marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese, all nestled between slices of crusty bread. This Italian-American fusion dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 8 slices crusty Italian bread
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Set up a breading station: place beaten eggs in one shallow dish and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper in another.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush or spray the breaded eggplant slices with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Toast the bread slices lightly.
7. Assemble the sandwiches: spread marinara sauce on one side of each bread slice, top with baked eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and another bread slice.
8. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
9. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Top Tips

• Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes before breading to remove excess moisture and bitterness.
• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
• Experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta or focaccia, for varied textures.
• Make your own marinara sauce for a fresher taste and to control the ingredients.
• For a crispier eggplant, lightly spray the slices with oil halfway through baking when you flip them.
• Allow the sandwiches to cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Variations

• Vegan version: Use plant-based cheese alternatives and replace eggs with plant-based milk for breading.
• Meat lover’s option: Add a layer of prosciutto or cooked bacon to the sandwich.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture or use spicy marinara sauce.
• Grilled version: Grill the eggplant slices instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
• Pesto twist: Replace marinara sauce with basil pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Open-faced: Serve as an open-faced sandwich on one slice of bread for a lighter meal.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Servings	4
Calories	450
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	55g
Protein	20g
Fiber	8g

These sandwiches are a good source of fiber and protein. The eggplant provides vitamins B1 and B6, potassium, and antioxidants. To reduce calories and increase nutritional value, consider using whole grain bread and adding vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers to the sandwich. The baking method helps keep the fat content lower compared to traditional fried eggplant parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

You can veganize this recipe using innovative ingredient swaps. Replace cheese with vegan substitutes like nutritional yeast or cashew cream. Experiment with cooking techniques to enhance flavor variations. Try grilling eggplant for smokiness or adding plant-based proteins for texture.

How Long Will These Sandwiches Keep in the Refrigerator?

You’ll want to contemplate food preservation techniques to extend shelf life. Generally, you can store these sandwiches for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. For best freshness, use airtight containers and consume within 24 hours of preparation.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Eggplant Parmesan Sandwiches?

You’ll find diverse salad options complement your sandwiches perfectly. Consider arugula with balsamic vinaigrette or a crisp Caesar. For soup pairings, try tomato bisque or minestrone. These sides enhance flavors while offering innovative texture contrasts.

Is There a Gluten-Free Option for the Breadcrumbs?

You’ve got gluten-free breadcrumb alternatives: almond meal, crushed rice cereal, or ground flaxseed. These work well for baking, maintaining crispiness without frying. Experiment with combinations to achieve your desired texture and flavor profile.

Can I Use Pre-Sliced Eggplant to Save Time?

You can use pre-sliced eggplant, but consider eggplant thickness for best flavor. Thinner slices may require adjusted cooking methods. Experiment with ingredient substitutions like grilled or air-fried eggplant to innovate your dish and save time.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the art of creating vegetarian eggplant parmesan sandwiches. By following these precise steps, you’ve produced a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and meat-free. The combination of crispy eggplant, tangy marinara, and melted cheese provides a delightful texture and taste profile. You’ll find this recipe adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. Remember to experiment with different cheeses or bread types to further customize your culinary creation.