Delicious Ratatouille Pasta Fusion

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, cut into cubes
• 2 zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 lb (250g) pasta of your choice
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the eggplant, zucchinis, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. While the vegetables are roasting, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, dried basil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
5. Once the roasted vegetables are done, add them to the sauce and stir to combine. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with the ratatouille sauce until evenly coated.
7. Serve the ratatouille pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Tips

To elevate this dish even further, consider roasting a head of garlic alongside your vegetables. Once soft, you can squeeze the roasted garlic into your sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, for a heartier meal, feel free to stir in some cooked chicken or white beans into the ratatouille before tossing it with the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Ratatouille pasta can be served as a main dish or as a side to grilled meats or fish. Complement it with a simple green salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette and a slice of crusty bread to complete the meal.

Nutritional Information

Our Ratatouille Pasta is not only delicious but is also packed with nutritious vegetables, providing vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Opting for whole grain pasta can increase this dish’s fiber content, making it a healthier option. Remember to adjust portion size and toppings such as Parmesan cheese to align with your dietary needs.