Crispy Lemon-Parmesan Eggplant

(1)
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
4

Quick to make and quick to cook, that's this irresistibly easy riff on eggplant parm. Long slices of eggplant are broiled until tender and golden, and then topped with a zesty panko breadcrumb mixture. While the main vegetable broils, you'll whip up a simple and elegant tomato and arugula salad to serve on the side.

Cook Mode (Keep screen awake)

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1 ½ ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated (½ cup)

  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest, plus 2 tablespoons fresh juice

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 1 large eggplant (about 1 ¾ pounds), cut lengthwise into 4 planks

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, plus more for sprinkling

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves

  • 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 5 ounces arugula

Directions

  1. Preheat broiler on high with a rack 8 inches below element. Combine panko, cheese, and lemon zest; season with salt and pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons oil to evenly coat. On a rimmed baking sheet, brush eggplant evenly with 2 tablespoons oil; season.

  2. Broil, flipping once, until eggplant is tender and golden brown on both sides, about 10 minutes a side. Top evenly with panko mixture (about 1/3 cup on each plank) and broil until panko turns crisp and golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

  3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, paprika, and remaining 1/4 cup oil; stir in mint and season. Drizzle about half of dressing over eggplant. Squeeze tomatoes over bowl to release juices, then drop them into dressing and toss with arugula to evenly coat. Serve over eggplant, sprinkled with more paprika.

    Crispy Lemon-Parmesan Eggplant
    Chris Simpson
Originally appeared: Martha Stewart Living, March 2022

Related Articles