Yes we said it — Eggplant Pizza Bites! Succulent slices of eggplant, lovingly baked to perfection. Topped with juicy tomatoes, melted mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil adorning each tender round, creating a dish that’s reminiscent of pizza but with a healthy twist. These Eggplant Pizza Bites are not only bursting with flavor but also packed with nutrients, making them the perfect choice for a nutritious snack, appetizer, or light meal. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Serving Size: Makes approximately 12 pizza bites
Cook Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
• Slice the eggplant into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. If you prefer, you can peel the eggplant before slicing, but it’s not necessary.

Step 2: Bake the Eggplant

• Place the eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet.
• Drizzle the slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender.

Step 3: Top ‘Em Off

• Once the eggplant is cooked, remove it from the oven and top each slice with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and halved cherry tomatoes.
• Feel free to get creative with your toppings – add some sliced olives, diced bell peppers, or even cooked chicken or sausage for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake Again

• Return the topped eggplant slices to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Keep an eye on them to prevent the cheese from burning – you want it to be golden and gooey, not brown and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Once the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through, remove the eggplant pizza bites from the oven.
• Garnish each bite with torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness of these Eggplant Pizza Bites!

Step 6: Share the Love

• Share your culinary creation with friends and family, or enjoy it all to yourself – we won’t judge!

There you have it – a fun and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a light lunch, or a creative appetizer to impress your guests, these Eggplant Pizza Bites are sure to hit the spot. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as tasty as it is nutritious!