Description
Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with this Mediterranean-Style Eggplant Pasta! Featuring tender eggplant, a rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, this vegetarian pasta dish is hearty, comforting, and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- Salt
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp white sugar
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 8 oz pappardelle pasta
- 8 oz fresh buffalo mozzarella, torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil (or more to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Eggplant: Slice and salt the eggplant, let it drain for 10 minutes, then rinse, pat dry, and chop into cubes.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pappardelle according to package instructions (about 10-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Eggplant: Heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook eggplant, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes until browned. Transfer to a bowl.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, heat remaining oil. Sauté onion and garlic until golden, about 10 minutes. Return eggplant to skillet, season with oregano, and stir for 1 minute.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add diced tomatoes, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes until eggplant softens.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the sauce with cooked pasta. Top with torn mozzarella and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Alternative: Swap buffalo mozzarella with ricotta salata or regular mozzarella.
- Make it Vegan: Omit the mozzarella or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian version.
- Pasta Variations: Substitute pappardelle with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
