Why eggplant pasta is the cozy winter dish you need
Winter is the ideal time for hearty, flavorful dishes. Pasta, when paired with the right ingredients, can shine in any season. On cooler days, it's worth turning to vegetables that add exceptional depth, such as eggplant, also known as aubergine. This vegetable pairs excellently with pasta, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. But why choose eggplant?
As days shorten and temperatures drop, we seek dishes that provide warmth and necessary nutrients. Eggplant perfectly fits these needs. Its delicate, slightly nutty flavor complements various sauces, and when paired with pasta, it creates a dish that satisfies hunger for a long time. Aubergine is an excellent choice for winter dishes, combining taste with nutrition.
Why eggplant? Its properties and flavor in winter cooking
Eggplant is a vegetable with a delicate texture that absorbs spices and sauces well, which is why it frequently appears in Mediterranean cuisine. It's worth incorporating into your menu because, in addition to being tasty, it offers health benefits. Low in calories yet rich in fiber, eggplant contains B vitamins, vitamin K, and potassium. Moreover, it provides antioxidants that help fight free radicals, which is particularly important in winter when we're more prone to infections.
Paired with pasta, eggplant creates a satisfying yet light dish perfect for lunch or dinner. With the right addition of herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, you can create a dish packed with flavor.
How to prepare pasta with eggplant?
Preparing this dish is simple and doesn't require much time. With just a few ingredients, you can create an aromatic and nutritious meal. First, properly prepare the eggplant—slice it, salt it, and set it aside for about 15 minutes to remove bitterness. Then, sauté the eggplant in olive oil until golden and soft.
Ingredients:
- 1 eggplant (aubergine)
- 9 oz penne pasta
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 2 oz Parmesan
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Pasta with eggplant is not only delicious but also a healthy dish. Thanks to eggplant, you get plenty of fiber, which promotes digestion while enjoying a low-calorie meal. The addition of garlic and tomatoes enhances flavor and boosts immunity, which is crucial in the fall and winter seasons.
Preparation:
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Meanwhile, sauté the garlic in olive oil in a pan, add the sliced eggplant, and sauté until soft and slightly browned.
- Add canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Finally, add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mix well, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, and garnish with basil leaves.
