Spicy Eggplant Parmesan: C1

Spicy Eggplant Parmesan

Note from Rochelle: This is inspired by various recipes eggplant parmesan recipes I found online. .This is a great dinner recipe, it's hearty and delicious! For those wary of heat, simply eliminate the cayenne pepper and jalapeno powder.

Nonstick cooking spray

1 large eggplant, stemmed and sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds

1 lb of lean ground turkey, prepared into turkey sausage (click here for recipe)

4 cups low-carb or light marinara sauce

1 1/2 cups fat free cheese (parmesan or mozzerella work well)

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp fennel seed

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp jalapeno powder

2 tsp dried oregeno

Directions

1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. 

2. Lay the eggplant slices on the baking tray and spray their tops lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Bake, turning once, until the slices begin to soften and brown, about 30 minutes.

3. Prepare turkey sausage (click here for recipe)

4. Combine turkey sausage and the marinara sauce; stir in the oregano, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and fennel seeds. Remove the pot from the heat.

5. Layer the eggplant slices and turkey marinara sauce in a 9- x 13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the cheese on top. Bake until bubbling, about 30 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Yield: 4 servings