Pasta with Eggplant

Pasta with Eggplant is a delightful fusion of tender pasta and roasted eggplant, enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is not only comforting but also brings a taste of Mediterranean flavors to your table.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or penne) - 200 grams
• Eggplant - 1 medium (approximately 250 grams)
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Canned diced tomatoes - 400 grams
• Fresh basil - 10 grams, chopped
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated (optional for serving)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Cut the eggplant into 1 cm cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden and tender.
3. While the eggplant is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, and bring to a simmer. Add the roasted eggplant, chopped basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber from eggplant, promoting digestive health.
• Contains antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, supporting overall health.

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