Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Eggplant

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Set aside. Cut each eggplant in half lengthwise. Shave off a thin layer of the bottom of each half, to ensure it sits flat on the baking sheet.

2. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh (save it to chop for the filling!), leaving about ½-inch on the insides and bottoms of eggplant halves. Place halves on the baking sheet and rub insides with 2 Tbsp of the olive oil. Season the cavities with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.

3. Meanwhile, make the filling. Chop the eggplant flesh. Heat remaining 2 Tbsp of the olive oil in a large skillet. Once hot, add the eggplant, onion, and bell pepper. Season with a couple of pinches of salt and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes or until tender. Add the garlic, and sauté for an additional minute or two. Add the mushrooms, and sauté for 6-7 more minutes. Stir in the olives, sun-dried tomatoes, cooked couscous, tahini, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

4. Scoop the filling into the eggplant halves. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat through. Serve with extra chopped herbs and lemon wedges.