Kickin Aubergine Pasta Spicy Eggplant alla Norma

Kickin' Aubergine Pasta: Your New Weeknight Hero

Fancy a quick and easy dinner? Me too! This Spicy Eggplant Pasta is a total game-changer. Honestly, it's so flavorful and satisfying, you won't even miss the meat.

A Taste of Italy with a Spicy Twist

This dish is inspired by the classic Pasta alla Norma . It’s an Italian staple. Think of it as a Pasta alla Norma variation .

It's a simple, rustic dish, but this version has a little kick. It is really elevated Spicy aubergine pasta !

From Prep to Plate in 30 Minutes

This easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's ready in just 30 minutes. With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes.

The recipe yields 4 servings. It's so simple. Everyone can make it.

Why You'll Love This Spicy Eggplant Pasta

Besides being incredibly delicious, this vegetarian pasta recipe is also packed with nutrients. Eggplant is a great source of fiber.

It is beneficial to your health. This Italian eggplant pasta is ideal for a casual dinner with friends. Or a cozy night in.

What makes it special? The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. It’s the perfect Kickin' Aubergine Pasta

Ready to dive in? Let’s gather our ingredients.

Kickin Aubergine Pasta Spicy Eggplant alla Norma Recipe Card

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Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 medium eggplant, cut into 1-inch pieces (approximately 300g)
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (225g) (e.g., penne, rigatoni, fusilli)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices (400g)
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (approximately 100g)
• 1 large handful fresh basil, torn, plus extra for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add eggplant and sauté until cooked through and lightly browned, stirring frequently. Add more oil if the pan gets dry.
• While the eggplant cooks, boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
• Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook briefly until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until the eggplant and tomatoes have softened.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water to the sauce to achieve desired consistency. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine.
• Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and torn basil. Toss gently. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and basil.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:423 kcal

Fat:15 g

Fiber:7 g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Italian

Let's Talk Ingredients and Kit for Kickin' Aubergine Pasta

Ready to dive into this Spicy eggplant pasta adventure? Honestly, you don't need a fancy culinary degree or a kitchen full of gadgets.

Let's break down what you'll need for this easy pasta recipe .

Main Players: Aubergine and Beyond

• Eggplant: You'll need 1 medium eggplant. That's about 300g .
  • Look for shiny skin and feels heavy. Avoid soft spots and discoloration. Trust me, a good eggplant makes all the difference.
• Pasta: Grab 225g ( 8 ounces ) of your favourite pasta. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli... go wild! I usually reach for penne.
• Diced Tomatoes: One can ( 400g or 14 ounces ) will do the trick.
• Parmesan Cheese: You need 100g ( 1 cup ) of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Oh my gosh, the aroma!.
• Fresh Basil: One big handful of basil. You can never have too much!
• Olive Oil: Need 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ).

Seasoning for a Spicy Aubergine Pasta Kick

Now for the flavour fireworks! This Spicy eggplant pasta wouldn't be complete without:

• Garlic: Four cloves, minced.
• Italian Seasoning: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Red Pepper Flakes: Start with 1/2 teaspoon . Increase to 1 teaspoon , if you are a spice demon. You have been warned.
• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, obviously!
• Essential Spice combinations: Don't skimp on the red pepper flakes!. They are the key to the "Kickin' Aubergine Pasta".

The Tool Box: Keep It Simple

You won't need a spaceship to make this vegetarian pasta recipe .

• A large skillet or frying pan
• A big pot for pasta.
• A colander.
• Measuring spoons and cups.
• A knife and cutting board.

That’s it! If you've got these, you're ready to make magic! Enjoy your Spicy eggplant pasta !

Cooking Method: Kickin' It with Spicy Eggplant Pasta

Alright, so you wanna nail this Spicy eggplant pasta dish? It's easier than getting a decent cup of tea at a petrol station, honestly.

This Pasta alla Norma variation is all about building flavour step-by-step. Let's get cracking!

Prep Steps: Sorted!

First things first: mise en place. Sounds fancy, but it just means "everything in its place." Chop your eggplant (about 300g) into 1-inch bits.

Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Get your tin of diced tomatoes (400g) ready, plus herbs and cheese sorted. Having everything ready saves a right palaver later on.

Safety-wise, watch your fingers with that knife, yeah? Nobody wants a trip to A&E.

Step-by-Step: Easy Peasy!

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Chuck in the eggplant and sauté until it's soft and slightly browned. This should take about 8- 10 minutes . Don't overcrowd the pan!
3. While the eggplant's doing its thing, get your pasta (225g) on. Remember to salt the water!
4. Reduce the heat under the eggplant, add the minced garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Oh, that smell!
5. Tip in the diced tomatoes, 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for that kickin' taste.
6. Simmer for about 5 minutes , until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Drain your pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
8. Add the pasta to the sauce, along with a splash of pasta water. Toss it all together and sprinkle with chopped parsley and parmesan.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Spicy Aubergine Pasta

Honestly, salting the eggplant beforehand can draw out excess moisture. Nobody likes soggy eggplant, right? Also, don't overcook your pasta! Al dente is key, trust me.

Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning. This easy pasta recipe is your canvas – get creative! If you're making this ahead, just undercook the pasta slightly, then finish it in the sauce when you're ready to serve.

Enjoy your Spicy eggplant pasta !

Recipe Notes for Your Kickin' Aubergine Pasta

Right, so you're about to dive into making this Spicy eggplant pasta . Before you get started, let's chat about a few bits and bobs that'll make your life easier.

Honestly, these are the tips I wish I had when I first tried making something similar!

Nailing Your Plating: Serving Suggestions

This Italian eggplant pasta is gorgeous on its own, but presentation matters, doesn't it? I like to twirl the pasta into a little nest on the plate.

Then, spoon over that gorgeous spicy aubergine pasta sauce. A sprinkle of fresh basil and extra parmesan? Chef's kiss! For sides, a simple green salad is perfect.

Some crusty bread for mopping up the sauce is a must. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio complements this vegetarian pasta recipe beautifully.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Flavour Alive

Got leftovers of your Spicy eggplant pasta ? Lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days .

If you want to freeze it, portion it out first. It lasts for up to 2 months . When reheating, add a splash of water to the sauce so the pasta doesn't dry out.

A microwave works. But a pan on the hob is much better. Low and slow, my friend.

Spice It Up (or Down): Variations

Fancy a twist on this easy pasta recipe ? You got it! For a vegan version, skip the parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavour if you are vegan. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra zing.

Try using different seasonal ingredients like bell peppers or zucchini. This turns it into a fantastic Red pepper pasta recipe !

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Okay, I'm no nutritionist, but here's the lowdown on this Quick eggplant pasta . This Kickin' Aubergine Pasta is packed with nutrients.

It is loaded with fibre from the eggplant and tomatoes. It has protein from the parmesan. And healthy fats from the olive oil.

It's a balanced and satisfying meal that's good for your body and soul. Win-win!

Alright, are you ready to get stuck in? Have a go at creating this Spicy eggplant pasta . I promise you won't regret it! It’s a delightful Pasta alla Norma variation that will leave you licking your lips, and you’ll quickly find yourself coming back to create Spicy eggplant pasta time and time again! Enjoy!