Trading carbs for veggie alternatives is all the rage these days. Using eggplant slices in place of ordinary pizza dough not only reduces calories, but it’s also better for your smile. That’s because the starch in regular crust can transform into a gummy paste, get stuck in your teeth and break down into sugar. Eggplant is rich in vitamin C, which is important for maintaining healthy gums. Basil contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits. And cheese is packed with enamel-strengthening calcium and is considered one of the best foods for your teeth.
Lifestyle
Mouth-friendly recipe: Mini eggplant pizzas
Ingredients:
Olive oil cooking spray
1 large eggplant
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup marinara sauce (look for one low in sugar)
10 large basil leaves
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 500 F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
2. Slice eggplant into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. Spray eggplant rounds with olive oil spray and place onto prepared baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper and garlic powder.
4. Bake eggplant rounds for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, flip eggplant rounds over, spray with more olive oil and bake for 10 more minutes.
5. Remove pan from oven and switch oven to broil.
6. With a spoon, spread marinara sauce on each eggplant round. Top with a basil leaf and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Return pan to oven. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Enjoy!
