Rigatoni With Eggplant, Peppers, and Tomatoes

I had an Italian friend who cooked this recipe for me, and I'd like to share it with you as it is so goooood. Serve with feta or Parmesan cheese if you desire.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 400 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 eggplants, diced with skin
• 6 tomatoes - peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 12 basil leaves, chopped
• 12 black olives, sliced

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the diced eggplant in the hot oil, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in the red pepper and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, and bring to a simmer; season with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the tomatoes have reduced slightly, about 15 minutes.

Step 3

bring a large pot of lightly-salted water to a boil; stir in the rigatoni and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm to the bite, about 13 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Step 4

Stir the eggplant mixture into the pasta along with the basil and olives. Spoon the tomato sauce overtop to serve.