Il Cucinologo
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Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Roasted Eggplant and Mint

17/11/2023

Here is the recipe to prepare whole wheat spaghetti with roasted eggplant and mint, a fresh and flavorful dish that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean with a touch of freshness given by the mint.

Ingredients

  • 320 grams of whole wheat spaghetti
  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Extra virgin olive oil (to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • A bunch of fresh mint
  • Parmesan or pecorino flakes (optional, for garnish)
  • Chili pepper (optional, if you like a spicy touch)

Preparation

  1. Start by washing the eggplants, then cut them into cubes about 2 cm on each side. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with a little coarse salt, and let them drain for about 30 minutes. This will help remove any bitterness. After this time, rinse the eggplant cubes to remove excess salt and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. Preheat the oven to 200 °C. Place the eggplant cubes in a baking dish, season with extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. If you want a more intense flavor, add some chopped chili pepper as well. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until soft and lightly golden.

  3. While the eggplants are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions, making sure to keep them al dente.

  4. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water. Return the spaghetti to the pot and add the roasted eggplant. Mix gently, adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a little cooking water if necessary to keep the dish moist.

  5. Tear the mint leaves with your hands and add them to the dish, mixing well so that their aroma releases with the heat of the pasta.

  6. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan or pecorino flakes and an additional sprinkle of fresh mint.

Fun Fact

Whole wheat spaghetti, in addition to being delicious, provides a higher amount of fiber compared to traditional pasta, benefiting digestion and the feeling of satiety. Moreover, paired with the rustic flavor of roasted eggplant and the brightness of fresh mint, they create a perfect combination for those seeking a balanced meal full of flavor.