Mini Eggplant Pizza Bites

Once you have sliced your eggplant into rounds, it’s time to arrange them on a baking sheet. This step is crucial for ensuring that your mini pizza bites cook evenly and become perfectly crisp. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Discover a deliciously healthy snack with mini eggplant pizza bites! These bite-sized treats use eggplant as a flavorful base, topped with rich marinara sauce, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for gatherings or a wholesome snack at home, they're easy to make and packed with nutrients. Enjoy the joy of pizza without the carbs, and get creative with your toppings to suit your taste. These mini pizza bites make nutritious eating fun and satisfying!

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Ingredients

2 medium-sized eggplants

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Olive oil for drizzling

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

Prepare the Eggplants: Rinse the eggplants under cold water and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Generously sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them rest on a paper towel for 15-20 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture and firms up the eggplant, making it perfect for baking.

Rinse and Dry: After allowing the eggplant to sit, rinse each slice under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to eliminate any remaining moisture.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the dried eggplant slices in a single layer on the sheet. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each slice, and season them evenly with black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

Bake the Eggplant Slices: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the eggplant slices for 15 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking. The slices should become tender with a slight golden color.

Add Sauce and Cheese: Carefully remove the eggplants from the oven. Spoon a small dollop of marinara sauce onto each slice, then top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, and if desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Bake Again: Place the eggplant pizza bites back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden.

Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the mini pizzas to cool for about a minute. Garnish each bite with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil to enhance the dish's taste.

Enjoy: Serve these delightful mini eggplant pizza bites immediately, perfect as a tasty appetizer or snack!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4-6 servings

Presentation Tips: Arrange the eggplant pizza bites on a beautiful platter, garnishing with additional basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.