Zaalouk Pasta

Zaalouk Pasta is a delightful fusion of traditional Moroccan zaalouk, a spiced eggplant and tomato salad, with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish offers a vibrant taste of North Africa, combining rich flavors with a comforting pasta base.

Ingredients

• Pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) - 200 grams
• Eggplant - 1 medium, diced
• Tomato - 2 large, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - a handful, chopped
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Harissa (optional) - 1 teaspoon

Steps

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced eggplant to the skillet, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the eggplant is soft.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Finish with chopped parsley, lemon juice, and harissa if using, mixing thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from eggplant and tomatoes, promoting digestive health.
• Contains heart-healthy fats from olive oil.
• Packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and spices.

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