18 High-Protein Flexitarian Dinner Recipes
Enjoy a satisfying and delicious end to your day with these 18 high-protein flexitarian dinner recipes. From hearty stews to flavorful curries and pasta dishes, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for a nutritious and satisfying evening meal.
1. Black Bean and Corn Salsa-Topped Salmon
A simple and flavorful salmon dish that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. The black bean and corn salsa adds a fresh and vibrant element to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup frozen or canned corn, thawed
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
- While the salmon is baking, prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
- Top the cooked salmon with the black bean and corn salsa before serving.
2. Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting vegetarian version of the classic shepherd’s pie. The lentil filling is rich and flavorful, and the mashed sweet potato topping adds a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Season the lentil mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the lentil mixture in the bottom of a baking dish. Top with the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the sweet potato topping is lightly golden.
3. Creamy Tomato Pasta with White Beans and Spinach
A simple and satisfying pasta dish that’s packed with protein and flavor. The white beans add a creamy texture and a healthy dose of plant-based protein.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cannellini beans. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve the pasta warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
18 High-Protein Flexitarian Dinner Recipes
Enjoy a satisfying and delicious end to your day with these 18 high-protein flexitarian dinner recipes. From hearty stews to flavorful curries and pasta dishes, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for a nutritious and satisfying evening meal.
1. Black Bean and Corn Salsa-Topped Salmon
A simple and flavorful salmon dish that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. The black bean and corn salsa adds a fresh and vibrant element to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup frozen or canned corn, thawed
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
- While the salmon is baking, prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
- Top the cooked salmon with the black bean and corn salsa before serving.
2. Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting vegetarian version of the classic shepherd’s pie. The lentil filling is rich and flavorful, and the mashed sweet potato topping adds a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Season the lentil mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the lentil mixture in the bottom of a baking dish. Top with the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the sweet potato topping is lightly golden.
3. Creamy Tomato Pasta with White Beans and Spinach
A simple and satisfying pasta dish that’s packed with protein and flavor. The white beans add a creamy texture and a healthy dose of plant-based protein.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cannellini beans. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve the pasta warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
4. One-Pan Lemon Herb Salmon and Veggies
A simple and elegant one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The salmon is cooked with a variety of colorful vegetables and a lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the asparagus and cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper. Top each fillet with a few lemon slices.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve immediately.
5. Chickpea and Vegetable Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that’s packed with plant-based protein and vegetables. This is a great one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (such as cauliflower florets, peas, and spinach)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or naan for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder and turmeric and cook for another minute.
- Add the chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the curry warm with cooked rice or naan.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans
A colorful and nutritious meal, these stuffed bell peppers are filled with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, and spices. They are a great vegetarian main course that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers, any color
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, red onion, cilantro, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each bell pepper half with the quinoa and black bean mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately.
7. Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
A low-carb and high-protein version of the classic shrimp scampi. Zucchini noodles are a great substitute for pasta, and the shrimp provides a good source of lean protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Add the white wine or vegetable broth and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the shrimp and sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the zucchini noodles are tender.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
8. Black Bean Enchiladas
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian enchilada recipe that’s packed with plant-based protein from black beans.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
- 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the black beans and corn. Cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave or a dry skillet to make them more pliable.
- Spoon a portion of the black bean mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Serve the enchiladas warm with your favorite toppings.

9. Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
A simple and delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The chicken is cooked with a variety of colorful vegetables and a lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb broccoli florets
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the chicken, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve immediately.
10. Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
A creamy and comforting risotto that’s packed with flavor from sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. This vegetarian dish is a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer. Keep it warm over low heat.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they have released their liquid and started to brown.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the edges of the rice are translucent.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it has been completely absorbed by the rice.
- Add a ladle of the warm vegetable broth to the rice and stir until it has been absorbed. Continue adding the broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and al dente. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until it has wilted.
- Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
11. Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A light and flavorful fish dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner. The roasted red pepper sauce is vibrant and delicious, and it pairs perfectly with the flaky baked cod.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the cod is baking, prepare the roasted red pepper sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the baked cod with the roasted red pepper sauce.
12. Sweet Potato and Kale Quesadillas
A nutritious and satisfying quesadilla filled with a flavorful mixture of sweet potatoes, kale, and black beans. This is a great vegetarian dinner option that’s both easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 large whole-wheat tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the diced sweet potato with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- While the sweet potato is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the kale and cook until it has wilted.
- In a medium bowl, combine the roasted sweet potato, cooked kale, black beans, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a little cheese over one half. Top with a portion of the sweet potato and kale mixture, then sprinkle with a little more cheese.
- Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling and press down gently.
- Cook the quesadillas in a large, dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve immediately.
13. Chicken and White Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili made with chicken and white beans. This is a great high-protein dinner option that’s perfect for a cold evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the cannellini beans, green chiles, chicken broth, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the chili has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chili warm with your favorite toppings.
14. Pasta with Lentil Bolognese
A vegetarian version of the classic Bolognese sauce, this recipe uses lentils instead of meat for a hearty and protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 40-50 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Season the lentil Bolognese with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
15. Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Bok Choy
A quick and easy Asian-inspired salmon dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The salmon is glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and served with steamed bok choy.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 4 heads baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic to create the teriyaki glaze.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the glaze over them. Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the salmon is baking, steam or stir-fry the bok choy until tender. Drizzle with sesame oil.
- Serve the teriyaki glazed salmon with the steamed bok choy and cooked rice. Drizzle with the remaining teriyaki glaze before serving.
16. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry
A classic stir-fry that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein. This is a great weeknight dinner option that can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, the honey or maple syrup, and the sesame oil to create the stir-fry sauce.
- Return the chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the chicken and broccoli and toss to combine.
- Serve the chicken and broccoli stir-fry over cooked rice.
17. Blackened Fish Tacos with Avocado Crema
A flavorful and healthy taco recipe that’s perfect for a fun and easy dinner. The blackened fish is spicy and delicious, and the avocado crema adds a cool and creamy element.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Toppings: shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, sliced radishes
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Rub the spice mixture all over the fish fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and blackened.
- While the fish is cooking, prepare the avocado crema. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave.
- Flake the cooked fish with a fork and divide it among the tortillas.
- Top the fish tacos with the avocado crema and your favorite toppings.
18. Eggplant Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish that’s both comforting and delicious. The eggplant is breaded and fried, then layered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese and baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the eggplant slices on a wire rack and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out any excess moisture.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in the third.
- Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. Dredge each slice in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top. Top with a layer of marinara sauce and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all of the ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.


