Eggplant Pizza Recipe

These mini pizzas are loaded with flavor, making them an excellent option for those looking to cut carbs or simply try something new.

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Why You’ll Love This Eggplant Pizza Recipe

• Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Eggplant makes a great alternative to traditional pizza dough, perfect for low-carb or gluten-free diets.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal ingredients.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings just like a regular pizza—pepperoni, veggies, or extra cheese!
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with nutrients and fiber from the eggplant, this recipe is a healthier way to enjoy pizza.

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Key Ingredients for Eggplant Pizza

1. Eggplant

• Choose a large, firm eggplant for thick, sturdy slices that will serve as your pizza base.

2. Olive Oil

• Olive oil is brushed onto the eggplant slices to help them roast perfectly and add a rich flavor.

3. Pizza Sauce

• Use your favorite pizza sauce, marinara, or even pesto as the base for your toppings.

4. Cheese

• Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for pizza, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for added flavor.

5. Toppings

• Customize your eggplant pizzas with a variety of toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, or fresh herbs like basil and oregano.

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How to Make Eggplant Pizza

This recipe is simple and quick, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something healthy and delicious. Here’s how to make eggplant pizza:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Slice the Eggplant

• Slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You should get about 6-8 slices depending on the size of the eggplant.

Step 3: Season the Eggplant

• Lay the eggplant slices on the baking sheet and lightly sprinkle both sides with salt. Let the slices sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of pepper.

Step 4: Roast the Eggplant

• Roast the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

• Remove the roasted eggplant slices from the oven. Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each slice, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.

Step 6: Broil the Eggplant Pizzas

• Return the eggplant pizzas to the oven and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

• Remove the eggplant pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano if desired.

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Tips for Making the Best Eggplant Pizza

1. Choose Firm Eggplants

• Select eggplants that are firm to the touch with smooth skin. This ensures they’ll hold up as a base for your pizza toppings.

2. Salt the Eggplant

• Salting the eggplant before roasting helps draw out excess moisture, preventing the pizzas from becoming soggy.

3. Roast the Eggplant Before Adding Toppings

• Roasting the eggplant slices before adding the pizza sauce and cheese gives them a crispy texture and ensures they are fully cooked.

4. Customize with Your Favorite Toppings

• Just like regular pizza, feel free to customize your eggplant pizzas with a variety of toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach, or feta cheese.

5. Keep an Eye on the Broiler

• When broiling, watch closely to prevent the cheese from burning. You want it to be golden and bubbly.

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Recipe Variations

1. Eggplant Margarita Pizza

• Top the roasted eggplant slices with pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a classic margherita-style pizza.

2. BBQ Chicken Eggplant Pizza

• Swap the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce, and top with cooked shredded chicken, red onion, and cheddar cheese for a BBQ-inspired pizza.

3. Vegetarian Eggplant Pizza

• Load up the eggplant with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach for a veggie-packed option.

4. Pesto Eggplant Pizza

• Use pesto sauce instead of tomato sauce, and top with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a fresh, herby twist.

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FAQs: Eggplant Pizza

1. Can I Make Eggplant Pizza Ahead of Time?

• While eggplant pizzas are best served fresh, you can roast the eggplant slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply add the toppings and broil.

2. Is Eggplant Pizza Gluten-Free?

• Yes! Eggplant pizzas are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or on a low-carb diet.

3. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

• Store leftover eggplant pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

4. Can I Freeze Eggplant Pizza?

• It’s best to enjoy eggplant pizzas fresh, as the texture may become watery when frozen and reheated. However, you can freeze the roasted eggplant slices before adding toppings.

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