Vegetarian Eggplant “Meatballs”

08 Aug Vegetarian Eggplant “Meatballs”

The farm has been harvesting eggplants steadily since June. If you are looking for a fresh idea for what to do with this classic vegetable besides eggplant parm or grilled eggplant, this vegetarian dish is for you. Roasted and then combined with fresh onion, garlic, and basil- these “meatballs” are full of flavor.  They can be served alone or with a homemade tomato dipping sauce.

Eggplant “Meatballs”

Ingredients:
2 medium eggplant- peeled and cubed (approximately 5 cups once cut)
2 Tbsp olive oil
½ cup sweet onion- finely chopped
2-3 garlic cloves- finely chopped
¼ cup fresh basil- finely chopped
1 egg
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
¾ tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs

• Preheat oven to 375°
• Prepare the eggplant and place in a large bowl. Drizzle olive oil over eggplant and toss to coat.
• Spread cubed eggplant onto a large baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes.

• Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
• Once cool, place the roasted eggplant, onion, garlic, and basil into a food processor. Pulse until eggplant is finely chopped and everything is well combined.
• Add egg, parmesan cheese. salt, and pepper. Pulse again to mix all ingredients.
• Remove mixture from food processor and place in a medium bowl. Add half of the breadcrumbs and mix well.  Slowly add the second half of the breadcrumbs, mixing well with each addition.
• Roll into about 1-inch balls and place on parchment lined baking sheet. This makes about 2 dozen balls.

• Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. Flip each ball and cook for an additional 10-13 minutes.
• Remove from oven.
• Serve by themselves or with this roasted tomato sauce (Roasted Tomato Sauce – Blooming Glen Farm).

Recipe and photos by Stephanie Borzio.  Stephanie is a mom of three active boys and is an autoimmune warrior.  After battling her own health for several years, Stephanie found healing through food and lifestyle changes, including joining Blooming Glen Farm CSA of which she is a long time member.  She is a Board Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach who is passionate about sharing healthy living tips and real food recipes.  Instagram and Facebook: Tru You Essentials; Website: www.truyouessentials.com