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Greek Moussaka

Greek Moussaka is a beloved Mediterranean casserole traditionally made with layers of eggplant, a hearty meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping. This simplified, healthy version offers all the classic flavors with a lighter twist. By replacing the béchamel sauce with a protein-packed Greek yogurt topping, this recipe maintains its rich and satisfying taste while reducing heaviness. Perfect for weeknights or a healthier take on comfort food, this moussaka combines roasted eggplant, a fragrant spiced meat sauce, and a golden yogurt layer for a dish that's both wholesome and delicious.

Serving size

Ingredients

For Moussaka:

Fresh:

1 pound grass-fed ground beef

2 large eggplants, sliced ¼-inch thick (rounds orlengthwise, skinned if desired)

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup whole milk Greek yogurt

1 large egg

1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes

Staple:

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt to taste (e.g., Natural Redmond Real Salt)

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Avocado oil spray

For the Green Beans:

Fresh:

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

3 garlic cloves, minced

Staple:

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt to taste (e.g., Natural Redmond Real Salt)

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

_{Grass-fed organic meat and organic non-gmo veggies are linked where available}

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STAPLE INGREDIENTS

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

Preheat oven to 425°F (200°C).

Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with unbleached parchment paper. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 2 minutes to release moisture.

Pat dry with a paper towel to avoid over salting.

Lightly brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and roast for 15minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Cook the Meat Sauce:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.

3. Make the Topping:

In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, egg, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.

4. Assemble the Moussaka:

Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with avocado oil spray.

Layer half the roasted eggplant slices, followed by the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices and meat sauce.

Spread the yogurt topping evenly over the layers.

5. Bake the Moussaka:

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden and set.

6. Sauté the Green Beans:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the green beans and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer to a serving dish and serve alongside the moussaka.

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Health Facts:

Eggplant

Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, making them great for digestion and weight management.
They’re packed with antioxidants like nasunin, which helps protect brain cells from free-radical damage.
Rich in potassium, eggplants support heart health and help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

Ground Beef (Grass-Fed)

Grass-fed beef is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which are linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like zinc and iron, which support muscle repair and immune function.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a protein powerhouse, making it a great alternative to traditional béchamel sauce for a lighter, protein-rich topping.
It’s full of probiotics, which support gut health and aid digestion.
High in calcium, it helps build and maintain strong bones.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that promotes heart health and may help protect against certain cancers.
They’re also a great source of vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, thanks to its active compound, allicin.
It may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan is rich in calcium and phosphorus, promoting strong bones and teeth.
It’s naturally lactose-free, making it easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance.

Green Beans

Green beans are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting skin health, immunity, and blood clotting.
They’re a great source of dietary fiber, which helps keep digestion on track.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
It’s also rich in antioxidants that protect your cells from damage.

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