Linguine with Eggplant and Mozzarella

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Linguine with Eggplant and Mozzarella

Indulge in this delightful Italian-inspired dish that brings together the creamy richness of mozzarella, the savory depth of sautéed eggplant, and the fresh burst of ripe tomatoes over al dente linguine. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect comfort meal or a festive gathering dish. This recipe pays homage to the rustic kitchens of Southern Italy, where fresh, seasonal ingredients shine in simple yet mouthwatering preparations.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Linguine
12 ounces
Eggplant
1 medium, diced
Olive oil
3 tablespoons
Garlic
3 cloves, minced
Tomatoes
4 medium, chopped
Mozzarella
8 ounces, diced or torn
Fresh basil
1/2 cup, chopped, plus extra for garnish
Salt
to taste
Black pepper
to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced eggplant and season with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft and browned, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer and the sauce to thicken. If it gets too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to combine with the eggplant and tomato sauce.
  6. Fold in the mozzarella and chopped basil, stirring gently until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated. If needed, adjust the consistency with more pasta water.
  7. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil for a fresh touch.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 400 • Fat: 18g • Carbs: 50g • Protein: 14g • Sodium: 300mg • Sugar: 6g