Eggplant Lasagna

If you've followed me for a while you know I am all about focusing on what we can ADD to our meals versus what we are taking away. That said I added eggplant to this lasagna and left the noodles too! I used Banza chickpea lasagna noodles, which you don't even have to boil before adding them to the dish! This saves a step of cooking and a little bit of time, definitely here for that.

When it comes to the eggplant, it's the star of the show! Don't skimp and skip the most important step. Laying out the eggplant and sprinkling it with salt draws out extra moisture and helps with the bitter flavor. This extra step is worth taking the time to do. Also, feel free to leave the skin on - I always do!

A note on the sauce - I specifically used a basil marinara sauce from Trader Joe's, so I didn't add anymore to this recipe. If you use a regular marinara add about 1 tsp. of dried basil to the cheese blend.

This lasagna was so delicious and filling! I will definitely be making it again & I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Ingredients:

1/2 yellow onion chopped

1.5 tbsp. avocado oil

1 garlic clove minced

1 eggplant

Salt

1 lb ricotta cheese

1/2 lb. diced fresh mozzarella

1 egg

2/3 cup freshly shaved parmesan

1 25 oz. jar marinara sauce

1 package Banza lasagna noodles

Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice eggplant in to round pieces and lay out flat on a cutting board. Sprinkle each piece with a little bit of salt and let sit for about 10 minutes. Sauté onion and garlic in 2 tsp. avocado oil over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes or until translucent. Set aside for later use.

When you see moisture rising to the surface of the eggplant, use a paper towel to pat it off. Place eggplant on a parchment lined baking sheet and brush with the remaining avocado oil. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes.

In a large bowl mix together the onions, ricotta, mozzarella, and egg. In a lasagna dish begin layering the marinara, noodles, eggplant, and cheese blend. Repeat about 3 times. (***Note: If you do not use Banza noodles, follow the instructions on the box before use. They might need to be boiled before adding them in***) Top with freshly shaved parmesan and cover with foil. Bake for 40 minutes at 375°F. Remove foil and broil for about 5 minutes at 450°F. Watch it carefully so that it does not burn!

Let cool and enjoy!!!