Pasta with Eggplant and Mushroom Ragu

Eggplant, mushrooms and diced tomatoes combine with onion, garlic and a splash of balsamic vinegar to make a rich tasting meatless ragu that’s hearty and flavorful enough to satisfy vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Pasta with Eggplant and Mushroom Ragu

Pasta with Eggplant and Mushroom Ragu

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Roasted eggplant, sautéed mushrooms and tomatoes are the key ingredients in this flavorful and satisfying meatless pasta dinner.
Yield: 4 servings
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 10 ounces pasta, cavatappi, penne
  • 1 large eggplant, about 1-3/4 lbs
  • Olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, very finely chopped
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2-1/2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Parmigiano-Reggiano for grating

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a large, shallow baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Put a large pot of salted water on to boil for the pasta.
  • Peel the eggplant and cut it into 3/4-inch cubes. Transfer the cubes to a large bowl and drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine.
  • Arrange the eggplant in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast until tender and lightly caramelized, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  • While the eggplant roasts, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and continue cooking until fragrant, 1 minute more.
  • Add the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook until they’re golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste and oregano. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, then add the eggplant to the pan.
  • Continue cooking for 7 to 8 minutes longer, stirring occasionally. Stir in the parsley and reduce the heat to low to keep warm.
  • Cook and drain the pasta according to package directions and return it to the pan. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • To serve, divide the pasta between four plates or pasta bowls. Top with the eggplant ragu and some grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Author: Lynne Webb
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: meatless meals, roasted eggplant
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