Award-winning chef. Successful restaurateur. Iron Chef judge. Social media star. Donatella Arpaia has done it all. Still her favorite thing to do is working in the kitchen, creating inspiring dishes using the freshest, most authentic ingredients—including Galbani® cheese. Explore her latest menu ideas and learn tricks of the trade from this inspirational entrepreneur.

Galbani® Elevated Eggplant Sub with Fresh Mozzarella

INGREDIENTS

1 Eggplant
1 Rustic Italian baguette or ciabatta
1 cup Marinara sauce
1 pkg. Galbani Fresh Mozzarella, thin sliced
  Kosher salt
  All-purpose flour, for coating eggplant
  Freshly ground black pepper
  Blended olive oil, for frying
  Fresh basil
   

METHOD

  1. Slice eggplant thinly on mandolin. Place on tray with paper towel underneath and salt the eggplant. Set aside.
     
  2. Prepare a plate with all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Mix together for coating eggplant.
     
  3. Prepare sauté pan with a few inches of blended olive oil for frying.
     
  4. Take eggplant slices and pat away all the water that the salt drew out. When eggplant is dry, lightly coat each side in flour mixture, and fry eggplant until medium-golden brown. Repeat this process until finished.
     
  5. Toast the Italian baguette or ciabatta bread.
     
  6. Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce on bottom of baguette toast. Then layer eggplant, Mozzarella, sauce, and fresh basil. Proportion is key. Do not over-sauce or over-cheese.
     
  7. Close sandwich and place in oven or salamander for one minute until cheese begins to melt. Serve immediately.
Donatella's Tips

Pairings

  • Wine & Spirits
  • Beer
  • Proteins
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Nuts, Grains & Starches
  • Flavors, Spices & Condiments