Pasta con le Melanzane e Pomodoro

Pasta con le Melanzane e Pomodoro is a delightful Italian vegetarian dish featuring tender eggplant and fresh tomatoes, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, combining simple ingredients for a delicious experience.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or penne) - 200 grams
• Eggplant - 1 medium (about 250 grams)
• Fresh tomatoes - 400 grams (or canned tomatoes)
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Fresh basil - a handful
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional) - for serving

Steps

1. 1. Begin by dicing the eggplant into small cubes. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. 2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. 3. Rinse the eggplant under cold water to remove excess salt, then pat dry with a paper towel.
4. 4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. 5. Add the diced eggplant to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly golden.
6. 6. Chop the fresh tomatoes (or add canned tomatoes) and add them to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. 7. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
8. 8. Stir in fresh basil just before serving. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and eggplants, supporting heart health.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight.

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