Aubergine Chilli Bacon Pasta Recipes

PASTA ALLA NORMA

Steps:

• Toss the aubergines with the salt, then tip into a colander set over a bowl for 30 mins, to extract any moisture.
• Heat 2 tbsp of the oil in a casserole dish or saucepan. Tip in the onion and a pinch of salt, and cook over a low heat for 10 mins. Add the garlic and chilli, and cook for 1 min. Tip in the tomatoes and sugar, and bring to the simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 20 mins, stirring occasionally. Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7.
• Pat the aubergine dry with kitchen paper, then toss with the remaining oil. Spread out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 mins until softened and golden around the edges. Meanwhile, cook the pasta following pack instructions, reserving 100ml of the cooking water.
• Stir the aubergine into the sauce with the basil and capers. Season to taste, then toss the spaghetti in the pan with the sauce and a splash of the pasta water. Divide between four bowls and top with the ricotta and extra basil, if using.

AUBERGINE & CHILLI TAGLIOLINI

Steps:

• Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan and cook the aubergine for 5 mins until starting to brown and soften.
• Add the onion, garlic, chilli and oregano, and cook for just a few mins. Add the tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and about 200ml water, then reduce heat and simmer gently for about 20 mins, until the tomatoes are reduced and really softened, and the sauce is thickened.
• Meanwhile, bring a large pan of water to the boil and cook the tagliolini following pack instructions. Drain the pasta and return to the pan. Add the sauce and toss well into the pasta with the basil. Serve with the grated pecorino.

AUBERGINE, CHILLI & BACON PASTA

Steps:

• Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Add the aubergine and cook for 8 mins until soft. Add the bacon and fry until cooked through, adding the garlic and chilli for the final min. Tip in the tomatoes, increase the heat and cook for 10 mins until thickened, stirring regularly.
• Meanwhile, cook the pasta. Drain well, then stir through the sauce. Serve with a scattering of Parmesan, if you like.