Smithtown Dish – small bites of foodie news - By Nancy Vallarella
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The competition for your grocery dollars in the Smithtown/Lake Grove area is stiffening up. This is really good news for the consumer. Businesses will fight for your dollar by providing extra customer service, higher quality products and competitive pricing, or they will get swallowed up by the competition.
There are little extras popping up here and there.
I recently noticed Uncle Giuseppe’s publishing recipes in their sales circular. Quick, simple and using several of their featured items. I did try their recipe for fig and prosciutto pizza and found it simple and delicious. This week’s circular recipe is stuffed zucchini. It looks equally promising, especially with the zucchini priced at 99 cents per pound.
No doubt while shopping for these recipe items, Uncle G’s is counting on you to pick up your grocery essentials. While strolling through the store you may also be inspired to create your own quick and simple recipe using their products. I did…
Deconstructed Eggplant Parmesan
1 medium globe eggplant
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano- Reggiano
2-3 large eggs lightly beaten
1 pint container of Uncle Giuseppe’s ciliegini with cherry tomato*
Chopped fresh basil leaves - optional
Slice up 1 medium eggplant - 1/2” slices. Dip slices in egg then panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano. Place slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper with a light coating of olive oil. Add a mist or drizzle of olive oil on top of each slice. Bake about 12 min. at 400 degrees until golden and soft in the center. Let rest 10 minutes. Plate with marinated ciliegini with cherry tomato from Uncle Giuseppe’s and there you have it! - - Buon Appetito!
*Slice ciliegini and tomatoes in half to stretch portion for more servings. Basil may be added to taste.