When it comes to cozy and comforting meals, nothing beats a bowl of homemade pasta. And if you’re looking to take your pasta game to the next level, why not try our delicious recipe for Eggplant Mozzarella Pasta? This dish combines the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese to create a satisfying and delectable meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Eggplant Mozzarella Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the sliced eggplant rounds on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the eggplant in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. Remove from the oven and set aside.
4. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
5. In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
6. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the marinara sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce looks too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
8. Arrange the roasted eggplant slices on top of the pasta mixture.
9. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the eggplant and pasta.
10. Turn on the broiler setting in your oven. Place the pan under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and additional flavor.
This Eggplant Mozzarella Pasta is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have your taste buds singing. The creamy mozzarella cheese complements the earthy eggplant and savory marinara sauce perfectly, while the fresh basil adds a touch of brightness to each bite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for two or a crowd-pleasing dish for a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, whip up a batch of this delicious pasta dish and enjoy a taste of comfort and joy right at your own dinner table.
