Eggplant and Zucchini Pie

INGREDIENTS FOR THE CHEESE MIXTURE

• 2 pounds fresh ricotta cheese

• 2 pounds fresh mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 pound grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 4 eggs

• Salt and pepper to taste

INGREDIENTS FOR THE EGGPLANT AND ZUCCHINI PIE

• 2 eggplants

• 4 zucchini

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 10 eggs

• 4 cups breadcrumbs (store-bought)

• 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper

• 2 quarts extra-virgin olive oil

• 5 cups tomato sauce

PREPARATION FOR THE CHEESE MIXTURE:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley and eggs. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Refrigerate briefly to make the mixture firm.

PREPARATION FOR THE EGGPLANT AND ZUCCHINI PIE:

1. Slice the eggplants and zucchini into 1/4-inch thick slices. Set the zucchini aside. Fill a bowl with lightly salted water, add the eggplant, and soak for 1½ to 2 hours to remove the bitter taste. In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until blended. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Line up the bowls on a work surface.

2. One at a time, carefully dip the eggplant and zucchini slices first into the flour, making sure both sides are covered; then into the egg mixture; and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Coat both sides very well, and gently tap off any excess coating. Transfer to a large plate and season with salt and pepper.

3. In a large, heavy skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the eggplant and zucchini (starting with the eggplant) and sauté on both sides until golden brown, about 3 minutes, making sure that they are cooked all the way through and soft. Try not to crowd the pan. Place the cooked eggplant and zucchini on paper towels to drain off the excess oil.

4. Preheat the oven to 450°F. In a large 9- x 13-inch baking pan, add 1 cup tomato sauce, a layer of 1/4 of the eggplant and zucchini, and top with a layer of 1/4 of the Cheese Mixture. Repeat the process three more times. Top with a layer of tomato sauce and sprinkle with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve immediately.