Stuffed Eggplant

Ingredients

• 1 medium white eggplant
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic
• 1 green chili pepper, chopped or 1/2 a green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 ripe tomato, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or other fresh herbs, chopped
• 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

1. 1

   Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh in the center until you have just a shell about 1/2-inch thick. Set the shells aside.

2. 2

   Chop up the eggplant you scooped out into small pieces.

3. 3

   Heat the oil in a frying pan, then add the chopped eggplant, onion, garlic, and pepper.

4. 4

   Saute until the onion is clear and soft and the eggplant is cooked through.

5. 5

   Add the tomato and basil or fresh herbs saute a few minutes longer.

6. 6

   Add the breadcrumbs and about 1/2 cup of the cheese and stir well. The mixture should hold together well. If not, add a few more breadcrumbs and/or cheese.

7. 7

   Scoop the stuffing mixture into the eggplant shells. Sprinkle with cheese.

8. 8

   Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 - 25 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted.

9. 9

   Enjoy!