Pasta with eggplant and tomato sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of eggplant combined with tangy tomato sauce. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here’s a simple recipe to make this mouthwatering pasta dish:
Recipe: Pasta with Eggplant and Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces (about 225 grams) pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
– 1 large eggplant, diced into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
– can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– teaspoon dried oregano
– teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return the cooked eggplant to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato sauce. Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the eggplant and tomato sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
8. Serve the pasta with eggplant and tomato sauce hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves, if desired.
9. Enjoy this incredibly delicious and flavorful pasta dish with your family and friends!
This pasta with eggplant and tomato sauce is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce and makes for a comforting and hearty meal any time of year. Buon appetito!