Name: Rich Vegan Eggplant Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 1 medium carrot, finely diced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 ounce) can of whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano; 0.5 teaspoon granulated sugar; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 0.5 cup vegetable oil, for frying; 1 medium eggplant, thinly sliced into rounds; 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

Transform humble eggplant into a rich, vibrant pasta sauce that's entirely plant-based. This sauce is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, perfect for coating your favorite pasta shape.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

5 mins

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

02

Step

10 mins

Add the canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Continue simmering, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

03

Step

4 mins

While the sauce simmers, heat the vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown and tender, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the fried eggplant and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

04

Step

1 mins

Using a fork or potato masher, gently crush the tomatoes in the sauce to your desired consistency. Remove the sauce from the heat.

05

Step

1 mins

Add the fried eggplant and sliced olives to the sauce. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the eggplant is evenly coated. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.

For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the eggplant instead of frying it. Toss the sliced eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant touch of heat to the sauce.
Fresh basil or oregano, stirred in at the end, will enhance the aroma and flavor.
Serve with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese for the ultimate Italian experience.

Adele Emmerich

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