1 pound eggplant, cut into ½-inch pieces
1 large zucchini (about 12 ounces), quartered lengthwise and cut crosswise into ½-inch pieces
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2¾ teaspoons table salt, plus salt for cooking pasta
¾ teaspoon pepper
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
1 pound mafaldine
½ cup chopped fresh basil, divided
¼ cup kalamata olives, chopped
2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
Grated ricotta salata or Parmesan cheese
Combine eggplant, zucchini, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Heat oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add vegetable mixture (skillet will be full); cover; and cook, stirring occasionally, until eggplant has released its moisture, 14 to 16 minutes.
Uncover and add oregano and pepper flakes. Continue to cook, uncovered, stirring often, until eggplant is mostly broken down, about 10 minutes longer. Stir in tomatoes and cook until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add pasta and 1 tablespoon salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup cooking water, then drain pasta and return it to pot.
Add ¼ cup basil, olives, capers, eggplant mixture, and ½ cup reserved cooking water to pasta and toss to combine. Adjust consistency with remaining ½ cup cooking water as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to serving dish, top with remaining ¼ cup basil, and drizzle with extra oil as desired. Serve immediately with ricotta salata.
Calories: 2687
2023.06.12 - 12pts