recipe

Eggplant Mini Pizzas: the Recipe for A Tasty, Quick and Low-Carb Twist on Appetizers!

Total time: 10 min prep/ 30 min bake
Difficulty: Low
Serves: 4-6
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By Cookist
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With these Eggplant Mini Pizzas, you can ditch the dough, but not the flavor! These bite-sized pizzas are the perfect way to satisfy your pizza cravings while at the same time being healthy and easy to eat! It’s so easy to make too! Top the eggplant rounds with tomato slices, cheese, and herbs. After a quick boil in the oven, the cheese becomes gooey and melty… a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in no time.  So ditch the carb-laden dough, and get ready to impress with these delicious and healthy mini pizzas!

What Are Eggplant Mini Pizzas?

Eggplant mini pizzas are a delicious way to combine the classic flavors of pizza with a healthy, low-carb twist.  Unlike traditional pizzas with their bready base, eggplant mini pizzas replace the dough with slices of eggplant.  This ingenious swap creates a naturally gluten-free and lighter option, perfect for those watching their carb intake! Eggplant, a versatile vegetable native to India, has been a popular ingredient for centuries across Asia and the Middle East.  Thin, flatbreads topped with various savory ingredients are common in these regions.  So it's easy to see how these culinary traditions might have inspired the concept of using eggplant as a pizza crust.

Tips for the Best Eggplant Mini Pizzas

  • Aim for eggplant slices that are not too thin (around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick). This ensures they hold their shape while baking and provide a sturdy base for your toppings.
  • Brush or drizzle the eggplant slices with olive oil before baking. This helps them brown nicely and prevents them from drying out.
  • Don't overload your mini pizzas with toppings. Too much weight can make them soggy and difficult to handle.
  • Opt for melty cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a shredded blend. Goat cheese or ricotta can also add a delicious twist.

Are Eggplant Mini Pizzas Healthy?

Yes, eggplant mini pizzas can be a healthy option compared to traditional pizzas.  Eggplant is low in calories and carbs and rich in fiber.

Can I Make Eggplant Mini Pizzas Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can! You can pre-bake the eggplant slices and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Assemble the pizzas just before serving and broil them for a few minutes.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Eggplant Mini Pizzas?

Leftover pizzas can be reheated in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a pan over medium heat until the cheese melts.

Do I Have To Salt The Eggplant Slices Before Baking?

Salting is optional, but it can help draw out some of the bitterness that eggplant can sometimes have.  If you do salt them, rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry before baking.

More Low-Carb Recipes You Might Want to Try

Zucchini Rolls

Zucchini Bruschetta

Eggplant Fries

Low-Carb Cauliflower Calzone

How to Store Eggplant Mini Pizzas

Leftover mini pizzas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheated gently in a pan or oven for a quick and delicious snack.

Ingredients

Eggplants
2
Tomatoes
2
Olive oil
50ml (1/4 cup)
salt
Garlic powder
Sweet paprika
Dried oregano
Pepper
Olive oil
mozzarella

How To Make Eggplant Mini Pizzas

Cut the eggplants and tomatoes into slices and set aside.

Prepare the oil mixture. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, dried oregano, and pepper.

Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking tray covered with parchment paper and brush each one with the prepared oil mixture.

Add the tomatoes on top and brush another layer of oil on top. Transfer to the oven and bake at 180°C/360°F for 15 minutes.

Remove from the oven and arrange the mozzarella slices on each one.

Add a drizzle of olive oil on each one and sprinkle with dried oregano.

Transfer the eggplant mini pizza into the oven and bake at 180°C/360°F for 15 more minutes. Serve warm.

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