Ready in half the time it takes to make traditional eggplant Parmesan, this inventive version is stacked with fresh herbs and melted-cheese goodness. Yields 4 servings

1 eggplant (1 1/4 pounds total), sliced crosswise 1/3-inch thick (12 slices total) Coarse salt
4 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan — I use Romano cheese
Fresh ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh oregano, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1 1/2 cups Basic Italian Tomato Sauce
1 pound fresh mozzarella, halved lengthwise and sliced crosswise 1/4-inch thick (12 slices total)
Extra-virgin olive oil to drizzle Parmesan for garnish

Preheat grill pan over medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 375 degrees, with oven rack in center position.

Brush eggplant slices with 3 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt. Grill 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until charred and soft.

hint–put on gas grill, so much easier and less messy!!

In a medium bowl combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, pepper, herbs, and remaining tablespoon olive oil.

Place 4 slices grilled eggplant on parchment-lined baking sheet. Top with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs, and slices of mozzarella. Repeat with two more layers. Drizzle with olive oil.  I found that stacks of four layers fell over in the over despite skewers.

Bake in oven for 20 minutes. Serve with a garnish of olive oil and Parmesan cheese.