Tomato Eggplant Pizza Bake

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €6.65 · €1.11/serving

• 1 medium aubergine, peeled and cubed (lightly salt and let sit for 15 minutes to remove bitterness)Est. price €0.80–€1.50
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced (saute in oil over low heat to release aroma without burning)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• One 12- to 14-inch artisanal pizza base (pre-bake for a crispier crust)Est. price €2.50–€4.50
• 3 to 4 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced approximately 1/4 inch thick, or one 16-ounce can of stewed tomatoes, drained (pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture)Est. price €1.20–€2.00
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, if desiredEst. price €0.05–€0.10
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups of grated part-skim mozzarella cheese or soy-based mozzarella alternative (spread cheese evenly to ensure full coverage)Est. price €2.00–€3.50

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by preheating the oven to a temperature of 425°F.

2. 2

   In a medium skillet, mix the eggplant and garlic together with a small quantity of water. Cover the skillet and steam the ingredients until the eggplant is soft yet retains its firmness, which should take approximately 8 minutes. Remember to monitor the water level periodically to ensure that the bottom of the skillet remains moist throughout the steaming process.

3. 3

   Start by placing the crust on a baking sheet. Next, evenly distribute the tomatoes over the crust followed by sprinkling the eggplant-garlic mixture on top. For added flavor, you can season with a pinch of salt and a few twists of pepper. Finish by layering the mozzarella cheese on top of everything.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  The Tomato Eggplant Pizza Bake combines Mediterranean flavors with a twist on traditional pizza, showcasing the influence of Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. It offers a vegetarian alternative to traditional meat-based pizzas.

• Seasonal note

  Tomatoes and eggplants are in season during the summer months, making this dish ideal for late summer when these ingredients are at their peak freshness.

• Health note

  This Tomato Eggplant Pizza Bake is a nutritious dish packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and protein. It is a good source of antioxidants and offers a healthy balance of macronutrients.