Winter warmth: Pasta with nutritious and flavorful aubergine
Winter is the ideal time for dishes that are hearty and rich in flavour. Pasta, combined with the right ingredients, can be delightful in any season; on cooler days, it's worth considering vegetables that add depth. One such vegetable is the aubergine, which pairs excellently with pasta to create a harmonious blend of flavours. Why, you may ask, aubergine specifically?
As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, we seek dishes that provide warmth while supplying essential nutrients. Aubergines perfectly meet these criteria. Their delicate, slightly nutty flavour blends well with various sauces, and when combined with pasta, they create a dish that satisfies hunger for a long time. The aubergine is the perfect choice for winter meals, particularly when you're looking to combine taste with nutrition.
Why aubergine? Its properties and flavour in winter cooking
Aubergines have a delicate texture that absorbs the flavours of spices and sauces well, which explains their frequent use in Mediterranean cuisine. They are worth introducing into your menu not only because they are tasty but also because they offer numerous health benefits. They are low in calories, rich in fibre, and contain B vitamins, vitamin K, and potassium. Moreover, aubergines contain antioxidants that help our bodies combat free radicals, which is especially important during winter when we are more susceptible to infections.
Paired with pasta, aubergines create a satisfying yet light dish ideal for lunch or dinner. With the right addition of herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, you can craft a dish full of flavour.
How to prepare pasta with aubergine?
Preparing this dish is simple and doesn't require much time. Just a few ingredients are needed to create an aromatic and nutritious meal. First, we must properly prepare the aubergine – slice it, then salt it and leave it for about 15 minutes to remove any bitterness. Then, gently fry the aubergine in olive oil until it is golden and soft.
Ingredients:
- 1 aubergine
- 250 grams of penne pasta
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 50 grams of parmesan
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Pasta with aubergine is not only delicious but also a healthy dish. Thanks to the aubergine, we consume plenty of fibre, which aids digestion, while also enjoying a low-calorie meal. The addition of garlic and tomatoes enhances flavour and boosts immunity, which is crucial in the autumn and winter months.
Preparation:
- Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, sauté the garlic in olive oil in a pan, add the sliced aubergine, and cook until it's soft and slightly browned.
- Next, add canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow to simmer on a low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Finally, add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mix thoroughly, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan, and garnish with basil leaves.
