TUNA-CHEESE MOUSSAKA

Steps:

• Prepare Eggplant: Peel and cut eggplant into 1/2" slices.
• Sprinkle slices with salt.
• Place in a bowl.
• Cover and add a weight.
• Rest for 30 minutes to release liquid.
• Drain and pat dry.
• Dip slices into beaten egg and saute in large skillet containing heated oil.
• Drain on paper towel.
• Prepare White Sauce: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
• Saute onion.
• Add flour and cook for 2 minutes stirring constantly.
• Remove from stove and cool for 1 minute.
• Slowly add the hot milk stirring constantly.
• Bring to a boil.
• Boil for 1 minute.
• Continue to cook until thickened.
• If lumpy transfer to processor and process for 5 seconds.
• Add seasonings and wine.
• Cool.
• Divide into 2 bowls.
• Prepare Filling: Divide parmesan cheese in two and set aside.
• Rinse tuna under cold water.
• Drain.
• Break into small pieces and add to half of white sauce.
• Mix well.
• Coarsely chop the green pepper by hand.
• To work bowl of processor add cottage and feta cheese, eggs and green pepper.
• Process 10 seconds until smooth.
• Add remaining white sauce.
• Process off and on to blend.
• Assembling the Moussaka: Line an 8x8 pyrex dish with eggplant.
• Add the tuna white sauce mixture.
• Sprinkle half the Parmesan cheese.
• Add another layer of eggplant and the egg-cheese mixture.
• Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese and top with tomato slices and a little more Parmesan cheese.
• Variations: 1 Substitute cottage cheese for feta cheese; 2 Replace the tuna with a 1- ounce can of sliced mushrooms or 1/2 pound of fresh mushrooms, sliced and sauteed.
• To Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F.
• and bake uncovered for 55 minutes.
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
• Recipe can be doubled and made in a 9"x13" pan.
• The completed recipe can be prepared the day ahead of serving.
• Bake for 35 minutes.
• Cool, cover and refrigerate.
• Bring to room temperature for 1 hour.
• Reheat at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot.
• The preparation for the eggplant and white sauce can be done the day before the Moussaka is assembled.
• Do not freeze.