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Before diving into the preparation of Mini Eggplant Pizza Bites, it’s important to understand the star ingredient: eggplant. This versatile vegetable is often overlooked, but it brings a wealth of benefits to the table, making it the perfect base for our pizza bites.

Mini Eggplant Pizza Bites

Discover a healthier twist on pizza night with Mini Eggplant Pizza Bites! These bite-sized delights are loaded with flavor, featuring savory marinara, gooey melted cheese, and the unique taste of eggplant. Perfect for game days or cozy evenings, this article offers a step-by-step recipe that makes crafting these nutritious snacks a breeze. Learn about eggplant's health benefits and tips for selecting the best veggies. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence at its finest!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium eggplants

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in cleanup.

    Prepare the Eggplants: Carefully slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Spread them out evenly on a clean surface or large cutting board, making sure not to overlap the slices.

      Salt the Eggplants: Generously sprinkle both sides of the eggplant slices with salt. Allow them to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps to extract excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants. After the resting period, gently blot each slice with a clean paper towel to remove excess salt and moisture.

        Brush with Olive Oil: Arrange the salted eggplant slices on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush or your hands, lightly coat each side with olive oil. This step is key to achieving a crispy texture during baking.

          Bake the Eggplants: Insert the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the eggplant slices for approximately 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time. The slices should become tender and develop a light golden color.

            Assemble the Pizza Bites: After baking, remove the eggplant slices from the oven. Spoon a dollop of marinara sauce onto each round, followed by a generous sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese. Top with a pinch of dried oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes, if you choose to add a little heat.

              Final Baking: Place the assembled eggplant pizza bites back in the oven. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned a lovely golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Finish with a garnish of fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and indulge in your delightful mini eggplant pizza bites!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Makes 4-6 servings