Roasted eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and salty ricotta salata create this vibrant southern Italian favorite.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large eggplant (about 14 oz), cut into 3/4 inch cubes
02 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 small bunch fresh basil, leaves picked
→ Pasta
05 - 14 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
→ Sauce
06 - 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes (or passata)
07 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1/2 tsp dried chili flakes (optional)
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese
10 - 3 oz ricotta salata, grated or crumbled (or substitute with Pecorino Romano)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 430°F. Toss the eggplant cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning once, until golden and tender.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and chili flakes (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Crush the tomatoes by hand or with a spoon, then add them with juices to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
04 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
05 - Add the roasted eggplant and most of the basil to the tomato sauce. Stir to combine and simmer for 2 more minutes. Toss the drained pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture. Serve in bowls, topped with ricotta salata and extra basil leaves.
