Anti-Inflammatory Eggplant Lasagna (Gluten-Free & Low-Carb)

This Anti-Inflammatory Eggplant Lasagna is a nutrient-dense, gluten-free comfort food made with roasted eggplant slices instead of pasta. Packed with antioxidant-rich tomatoes, anti-inflammatory garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, and high-quality protein, this dish supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and keeps carbs low.

Perfect for anyone following a low-carb diet, Mediterranean diet, gluten-free lifestyle, or anti-inflammatory meal plan.

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📝 Description

Unlike traditional lasagna loaded with refined carbs, this version uses roasted eggplant slices layered with a savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and melted mozzarella.

Eggplant is rich in anthocyanins (nasunin) — powerful antioxidants known to combat oxidative stress. Combined with garlic, extra virgin olive oil, basil, and oregano, this dish supports heart health and reduces inflammatory markers.

This recipe is:

• ✅ Gluten-free

• ✅ Low-carb & keto-friendly option

• ✅ Mediterranean diet approved

• ✅ High-protein

• ✅ Rich in antioxidants

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Eggplant Layers:

• 3 large eggplants, sliced lengthwise (¼-inch thick)

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Anti-Inflammatory Sauce:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 lb organic grass-fed ground turkey (or lentils for vegetarian)

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes

• 1 tsp fresh basil

• Sea salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1½ cups whole milk ricotta (or dairy-free ricotta)

• 1 large organic egg

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Roast the Eggplant

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lay eggplant slices on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly golden.

4. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.

2️⃣ Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.

3. Add ground turkey (or lentils) and cook through.

4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

5. Simmer 15–20 minutes until thickened.

3️⃣ Prepare Cheese Mixture

Mix ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley in a bowl.

4️⃣ Assemble

1. Spread sauce on bottom of baking dish.

2. Layer roasted eggplant slices.

3. Spread cheese mixture.

4. Repeat layers (usually 3 layers).

5. Finish with sauce and extra mozzarella.

5️⃣ Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with organic arugula salad with lemon and olive oil

• Pair with low-carb garlic cauliflower bread

• Add a side of roasted broccoli or turmeric quinoa

• Top with fresh basil and drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

Perfect for:

• Meal prep recipes

• Healthy family dinners

• Anti-inflammatory diet plans

• Weight loss meal plans

• Diabetic-friendly dinners

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🔄 Variations

🥑 Dairy-Free Version

Use almond ricotta and dairy-free mozzarella.

🥩 Keto Version

Increase cheese, use full-fat ricotta, and skip lentils.

🌱 Vegan Version

Replace turkey with lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based cheese.

🌶 Spicy Version

Add cayenne pepper and fresh chili.

🧄 Extra Anti-Inflammatory Boost

Add grated fresh ginger and black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption).

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❓ Related Questions

Is eggplant anti-inflammatory?
Yes. Eggplant contains antioxidants like nasunin that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

Can I freeze eggplant lasagna?
Yes. Freeze fully cooked and cooled portions up to 3 months.

Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, if made without lentils and with full-fat dairy.

How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Salt and roast eggplant first to remove excess moisture.

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📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 320–380

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 22g

• Net Carbs: 10–14g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 6g

• Rich in Vitamin C, Potassium, and antioxidants

• High in anti-inflammatory compounds

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💡 Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Eggplant Lasagna delivers the comfort of classic Italian cuisine without the inflammatory ingredients found in traditional pasta-based dishes. It supports: