Penne Arrabbiata with Aubergine

Penne arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that is made with a spicy tomato sauce. The name "arrabbiata" means "angry" in Italian, and the dish is said to have originated in Rome. The sauce is made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil. It is typically served with penne pasta, but can also be served with other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni. Aubergine, also known as eggplant, is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a mild flavor and a slightly spongy texture. When cooked, it can be roasted, fried, or grilled. In this recipe, the aubergine is roasted until it is tender and then added to the arrabbiata sauce. This dish is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It is also a great way to use up leftover aubergine.

Ingredients

* 1 pound penne pasta * 1 large aubergine * 1/4 cup olive oil * 1 onion, chopped * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes * 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese * Salt and pepper to taste * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). 2. Cut the aubergine into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. 3. Spread the aubergine on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned. 4. While the aubergine is roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions. 5. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. 6. Stir in the chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds. 7. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. 8. Add the roasted aubergine to the sauce and stir to combine. 9. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Stir to coat. 10. Season with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. 11. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Tips

* For a spicier sauce, add more chili flakes. * If you don't have any dried chili flakes, you can use 1 fresh chili pepper, finely chopped. * You can also add other vegetables to this dish, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. * This dish can be served with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.