5 Delicious and Nutritious Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches for Kids’ Lunch Boxes

Are you tired of the same old boring sandwiches for your kids’ lunch boxes? It’s time to switch things up with these delightful Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches! Bursting with flavor and filled with nutritious ingredients, these sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Say goodbye to uninspired lunches and hello to a new favorite that will have everyone asking for more. Let’s get cooking and whip up a batch of these delicious sandwiches that are perfect for school lunches and beyond!

Why Choose Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches?

Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them an ideal choice for kids’ lunch boxes. Here are a few reasons why you should consider adding these sandwiches to your meal rotation:

• • Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: This recipe features nutritious ingredients like eggplant, bell peppers, arugula, and whole grain mustard, providing essential vitamins and minerals to fuel your child’s day.

• • Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your child’s diet, these sandwiches are a fantastic choice. They’re packed with flavor and protein, making them satisfying and satisfying.

• • Kid-Friendly Flavors: With their savory roasted eggplant, melted provolone cheese, and tangy whole grain mustard, these sandwiches are sure to appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients for Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need:

For the Sandwiches:

• • 1 globe eggplant (1 pound), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch round slices

• • Kosher salt

• • 1/4 cup olive oil

• • 1 clove garlic, grated

• • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

• • 1 12-ounce jar roasted red bell peppers, drained

• • 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half horizontally

• • 4 slices provolone cheese

• • 1 cup arugula

• • Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon

• • Whole grain mustard

Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s move on to the recipe!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

• • Lay the eggplant slices on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

• • Sprinkle salt over both sides of the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30-40 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

• • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Roast the Eggplant:

• • Pat the eggplant slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess salt.

• • In a bowl, combine olive oil, grated garlic, dried oregano, and red chili flakes.

• • Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the herbed olive oil mixture.

• • Place the eggplant slices on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.

3. Prepare the Arugula:

• • In a large bowl, toss arugula with fresh lemon juice until evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches:

• • Place the bottom half of each ciabatta roll on a foil-lined baking sheet.

• • Top with roasted eggplant slices, roasted red bell peppers, and a slice of provolone cheese.

• • Place the ciabatta tops on the baking sheet, cut side down.

• • Bake in the oven for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• • Spread whole grain mustard on the cut side of the ciabatta tops.

• • Top each sandwich with a pile of dressed arugula.

• Sandwich the mustard-glazed ciabatta tops on top of the arugula and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Recipe 2: 

Delicious Roasted Eggplant Rolls

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying sandwich option? Try these mouthwatering Roasted Eggplant Rolls packed with fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy Boursin® cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect choice for a quick and wholesome meal.

Why Roasted Eggplant Rolls Are a Must-Try

These Roasted Eggplant Rolls offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s why you should give them a try:

1. Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with nutrient-rich eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and basil, these rolls are a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.

2. Creamy and Flavorful: The addition of creamy Boursin® cheese adds a decadent touch to the rolls, complementing the earthy flavors of the roasted eggplant.

3. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious rolls in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small eggplant, halved lengthwise and sliced
• 2 (6-inch) whole-grain sandwich rolls, split
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon garlic-and-herb spreadable cheese (such as Boursin®)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Roma (plum) tomato, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions:

1. Preheat the Broiler: Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler.

2. Prepare the Eggplant: Brush olive oil over both sides of each eggplant slice. Arrange the eggplant slices onto a baking sheet and cook under the broiler until tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes per side.

3. Toast the Rolls: Toast the split rolls under the broiler, cut sides up, until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Prepare the Yogurt Spread: In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, garlic-and-herb spreadable cheese (such as Boursin®), and minced garlic until smooth.

5. Assemble the Rolls: Spread the yogurt mixture onto the rolls. Divide the roasted eggplant slices between the rolls, then add tomato slices and chopped fresh basil to complete the sandwiches.

Cook’s Notes:

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly cracked pepper over the assembled sandwiches.
• If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can omit the cheese without sacrificing taste.

With their delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients, these Roasted Eggplant Rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!

4. Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the roasted eggplant slices and assemble the sandwiches the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

5. Can I customize these sandwiches with other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize these sandwiches with your favorite toppings such as sliced tomatoes, avocado, or cucumber for added flavor and texture.

Are these sandwiches suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes, these Roasted Eggplant Sandwiches are completely vegetarian-friendly and are packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love.

With their savory roasted eggplant, melted provolone cheese, and tangy whole grain mustard, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Pack them in your kids’ lunch boxes for a nutritious and satisfying meal that will keep them fueled throughout the day!