Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14–15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss eggplant cubes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and tender.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic over medium heat for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
- Stir roasted eggplant into the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Roast eggplant in a single layer to encourage browning and prevent sogginess.
- Leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
- Stir in ricotta or fresh mozzarella for a creamier version.
- Omit Parmesan or use plant-based cheese to make it vegan.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg