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Penne with Eggplant, Tomato & Basil

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serves 4

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil; more for drizzling
  • 1 medium eggplant (1 lb.), cut into 1/4-inch dice (about 6 cups)
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes; more to taste
  • 1-1/4 lb. tomatoes, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch chunks (about 2-1/3 cups)
  • 3 medium cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 cup roughly chopped fresh basil
  • 3/4 lb. dried penne rigate
  • 1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmigiano Reggiano or ricotta salata

Details

Preparation

Step 1



Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.

Heat 1/4 cup of the oil in a 12-inch skillet over high heat until shimmering hot. Add the eggplant and a generous pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to medium high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and light golden brown, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Reduce the heat to medium, return the pan to the stove, and add the remaining 2 Tbs. oil, the onion, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onion is tender and golden brown, about 6 minutes. Add the tomatoes and another pinch of salt, and cook until the tomatoes start to break down and form a sauce, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Return the eggplant to the pan, add the basil, and cook for 1 minute more to let the flavors meld. Taste the sauce and add salt if needed.

Cook the pasta in the boiling water until al dente. Reserve a small amount of the cooking water and drain the pasta. Put the pasta in a large bowl and toss with the eggplant mixture. If the pasta needs a little more moisture, add a splash of the pasta water. Taste and add salt if needed. Put the pasta on a platter or divide among shallow bowls and finish with a drizzle of oil. Sprinkle the Parmigiano or ricotta salata on top and serve immediately.

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