Cooking is my way of expressing love to my family and friends. How about you? For Sara, it’s the same. Cooking alongside her was a joy during our time in Italy with Mike and Martha. Sara, a lively Italian grandmother, insists on using only fresh ingredients for her family meals. Our trip to Italy last year not only taught us culinary delights but also introduced us to two wonderful friends, Mike and Martha.
Mike was the fortunate winner of the Michael Angelo’s sweepstakes. Since our voyage, we’ve kept in touch via email. Martha, with her sweet nature, often leaves comments on my recipes and interacts on Facebook. I wish they didn’t reside so far away in Oregon.
Do you enjoy eggplant as much as I do? Today, I’m sharing a twist on Sara’s stuffed eggplant recipe, which I picked up while cooking with her in Italy.
Start by scoring the sides of the eggplant with a knife and then scoop out the insides with a spoon. Sara’s trick is to sprinkle salt on the eggplant to release excess moisture. Dice the eggplant flesh you’ve removed.
In a heavy-bottomed pot, like a French oven, cook the mild Italian chicken sausage (I added chicken sausage, which isn’t in Sara’s original recipe). Once cooked, set the sausage aside. Sauté the onions and garlic, then add the eggplant and cook it down. It may not look appealing, but fellow eggplant enthusiasts will appreciate its flavor.
Return the sausage to the pot and mix in breadcrumbs, cooking the filling further. Rinse and dry the eggplant shells before stuffing them with the mixture.
Generously ladle tomato sauce over the stuffed eggplant, cover with foil, and bake. Once done, top with sliced fresh mozzarella and broil for about five minutes. Look at those delicious cheese spots—Curtis calls them “cheetah spots.” We adored this dish in Italy and love recreating it at home! Serve with spaghetti and garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Disclosure: Thank you to Michael Angelo’s for sponsoring my trip to Italy. I only collaborate with brands I admire, and I always share my genuine opinions with you.
