Name: Charred Eggplant Pasta with Creamy Goat Cheese Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces Orecchiette Pasta (Substitute with penne or fusilli if desired.); 1 large Eggplant (Zucchini can be used for a different flavor note.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Best if using extra virgin.); 2 medium Shallots (Regular onions can work if shallots are not available.); 3 cups Tomatoes (Canned tomatoes can be an alternative if fresh aren’t on hand.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Can be omitted for a lighter sauce if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Omit for a milder taste.); 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can work here too.); 1/4 cup Raisins (Optional for sweetness and texture.); 1/2 cup Pecans (Walnuts or almonds can be substituted.); 4 ounces Goat Cheese (Cream cheese can be a substitute.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Basil can be swapped in for different flavor.)

Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese is a delightful summer dish that brings together the smoky flavors of grilled eggplant with the creamy richness of goat cheese. This recipe promises a unique texture and delicious combination that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, let’s dive into how to make this amazing pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Charred Eggplant Pasta with

This charred eggplant pasta with tomatoes and goat cheese has so much to offer. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, with a smoky taste that comes from the grilling process. Second, it’s versatile; you can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, making it an excellent choice for a vegan charred eggplant pasta recipe. Third, it’s packed with nutrients, including fiber and healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts. Plus, it’s a fantastic vegetarian dish that’s perfect for any meal. You can enjoy it as grilled eggplant pasta or even as a roasted eggplant spaghetti. Lastly, the creamy goat cheese adds a touch of luxury to your plate!

Charred Eggplant Pasta with Creamy Goat Cheese Delight - Charred Eggplant Pasta with - main visual representation

Ingredients for Charred Eggplant Pasta with

Gather these items:

8 ounces Orecchiette Pasta (Substitute with penne or fusilli if desired.)
1 large Eggplant (Zucchini can be used for a different flavor note.)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Best if using extra virgin.)
2 medium Shallots (Regular onions can work if shallots are not available.)
3 cups Tomatoes (Canned tomatoes can be an alternative if fresh aren’t on hand.)
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Can be omitted for a lighter sauce if preferred.)
1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Omit for a milder taste.)
2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.)
1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can work here too.)
1/4 cup Raisins (Optional for sweetness and texture.)
1/2 cup Pecans (Walnuts or almonds can be substituted.)
4 ounces Goat Cheese (Cream cheese can be a substitute.)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Basil can be swapped in for different flavor.)

How to Make Charred Eggplant Pasta with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your grill to high heat and grill the eggplant halves for about 20 minutes, charring each side for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cool the eggplant, peel the skin, chop into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
Step 3: Boil water with salt in a large pot, then add orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Step 4: Toast pecans in a skillet over medium heat in olive oil for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Step 5: Sauté shallots in the same skillet, add tomatoes, and cook for 5 minutes until they release juices.
Step 6: Stir in tomato paste, red pepper flakes, eggplant, red wine vinegar, honey, and raisins, simmering for 2 minutes.
Step 7: Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 8: Combine pasta with the sauce, adjusting with reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
Step 9: Stir in olive oil and fresh parsley, then adjust seasoning to taste with salt or red pepper flakes.
Step 10: Plate the pasta, topping with goat cheese, pecans, and additional parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Charred Eggplant Pasta with

Keep these in mind:

Always grill the eggplant until it’s well-charred for maximum flavor.
Feel free to add extra herbs like basil or oregano for more depth.
Consider using whole-grain pasta for a healthier option.
To keep it vegan, simply omit the goat cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Best Ways to Serve Charred Eggplant Pasta with

This pasta dish can be served in various ways. It can be paired with a simple green salad for a light meal or enjoyed with garlic bread for a heartier dinner. Additionally, you can serve it as a side dish for grilled meats or fish for a complete Mediterranean feast.

How to Store and Reheat Charred Eggplant Pasta with

To store, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Charred Eggplant Pasta with

What’s the secret to perfect Charred Eggplant Pasta with?

The secret lies in grilling the eggplant properly. Ensure it is charred but not burnt to bring out its smoky flavor while maintaining a tender texture. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes and good olive oil also enhances the dish’s overall taste. Learn more about selecting quality ingredients.

Can I make Charred Eggplant Pasta with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Grill the eggplant and cook the pasta, then store them separately. Combine them with the sauce just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Check out tips for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Charred Eggplant Pasta with?

A common mistake is overcooking the eggplant, which can make it mushy. Also, be sure to reserve enough pasta water when draining, as it helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency later on. Discover more cooking tips.

Variations of Charred Eggplant Pasta with You Can Try

For a different twist, consider using smoked eggplant fettuccine instead of orecchiette or adding a creamy charred eggplant pasta sauce with cashews for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses to suit your palate, such as adding ricotta or using a vegan cheese for those with dietary restrictions.