An iconic dish that epitomizes the essence of Italian cuisine? Eggplant parmesan. While the genuine Italian connection to eggplant parmesan, or Melanzane alla Parmigiana, remains somewhat controversial, what is not contested is the gastronomic delight of tomato-bathed tender eggplant strewn in melty cheese. This skillet version does away with the battering and frying of individual eggplant slices in favour of composing the dish in a single pan to make it a more accessible weeknight dish. A popular food in Italian kitchens, cannellini beans add some heft and protein to the meal.