Eggplant Parmesan Soup

I have this conversation with people often - kind of an ice breaker or a get to know you challenge. Is soup a meal?

I hope you said yes.

Even when it's still hot outside, a bowl of soup is an awesome way to utilize everything in the fridge, try some new flavor combos or just have something hearty and comforting.

Today we are using up some bits and pieces of our box to make a soupy take on Eggplant Parmesan. We sauté soup veggies like celery and carrots, add in zucchini, roasted eggplant and your favorite marinara. Top with a dollop of creamy ricotta and you've got your favorite Italian casserole in a bowl of quick and delicious soup. This soup is a perfect way to hide veggies! You can add anything you have on hand; extra tomatoes, spinach, even mushrooms. Let's dig in! Eggplant Parmesan Soup Serves 4-6

Ingredients 2 Perfectly Imperfect eggplant 1 small Perfectly Imperfect onion, diced 2 Perfectly Imperfect carrots, diced 2 stalks Perfectly Imperfect celery, diced 1 small Perfectly Imperfect zucchini, diced 1 T garlic, powder, or fresh minced 1 T dried oregano 4 cups crushed tomatoes or favorite marinara sauce 4 cups water 1 T olive oil

Ricotta topping 1 cup ricotta cheese 1 T fresh parsley 1 T fresh basil 1 T olive oil 1 tsp salt

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400. Cut eggplant in half and place on sheet tray or baking dish and roast for 35 minutes, until soft and tender. Let cool slightly. 2. While eggplant is roasting, sauté chopped onion, carrots, celery and zucchini in olive oil. Cook over medium until browned and softened. Turn the heat to low and stir in garlic and oregano. Add 4 cups of water and scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan, that's where the hidden flavor is! 3. When eggplant is cool to the touch, peel skin away from the insides and chop. Add to the pot and add the 4 cups of remaining tomato puree. 4. Simmer on low for 30 minutes. Mix ricotta topping ingredients together and when ready to serve, scoop a dollop onto each bowl. Serve with crusty bread and a side salad. Enjoy!

We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Be sure to tag us on instagram, @perfectlyimperfectproduce, when you recreate it in your own kitchen! For other ways to order and donate to eliminating food waste, find us at perfectlyimperfectproduce.com. Thanks for another great week, PIP friends!