If you love Italian flavors and are looking for a delicious vegan dinner, look no further than this roasted eggplant pasta. The creamy roasted eggplant is combined with a flavorful garlic-infused tomato sauce, making it a meal that will satisfy your taste buds. This dish is also incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. Whether you're looking for a vegan dinner to impress your family or friends, or just want to jazz up your weeknight dinner routine, this roasted eggplant pasta is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
For this roasted eggplant pasta you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes
- Salt, pepper, and olive oil for roasting the eggplant
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound of spaghetti or other favorite pasta
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
To make this roasted eggplant pasta, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Place the cubed eggplant on a baking sheet and season with salt, pepper and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Roast the eggplant for 20-25 minutes, or until it's golden brown and tender. Once the eggplant is finished roasting, set it aside.
In a large pot, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once the pasta is finished cooking, drain it and add it to the sauce. Stir in the roasted eggplant, and if desired, add a splash of olive oil. Serve the roasted eggplant pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta is best for this roasted eggplant pasta?
Any type of pasta will work for this roasted eggplant pasta, but long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine work best. You can also use gluten-free pasta if desired.
Can I use frozen eggplant?
Yes, you can use frozen eggplant for this roasted eggplant pasta. Just be sure to thaw it before roasting.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this roasted eggplant pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the pasta, heat up the sauce, and add the roasted eggplant.
Can I add other vegetables to this roasted eggplant pasta?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to this roasted eggplant pasta. Try adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use regular tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. Simply chop the tomatoes into small pieces before adding them to the sauce.
