Eggpland Manicotti And Spinach

Make 1/2 inch slits on outside of eggplant; insert garlic slices. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour and then let cool.

Peel the eggplant and cut into 1-inch cubes.

Cut bell pepper in 1/2 lengthwish and discard seeds. Place pepper, skin side up on baking sheet and flatten with palm of hand. Broil for 10 minutes or until charred. Place in ice water; let stand for 5 minutes, peel and discard skins. In food processor, place eggplant, bell pepper, tomatoes, thyme and salt. Process till chopped. Stuff manicotti shells with mixture. Arrange in baking dish prepared with cooking spray. Cover and bake @ 350 degree for 30 minutes.

Clean processor. Combine spinach, cottate chese, lemon juice and pepper; process until smooth. Place in bowl. Spoon spinach mixture over shells, and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Cover and let stand 5 minutes.