Indulge yourself in a culinary journey to Italy with this stellar Linguine with Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce recipe. This dish combines the hearty, earthy flavors of mushrooms and eggplant with a luscious tomato sauce and perfectly cooked linguine. Delight in every bite as you taste the tender eggplant, savory mushrooms, and aromatic spices, all melded together in a rich tomato base, served over al dente linguine.
This recipe calls for simple ingredients which can be easily found in any supermarket. However, keep a keen eye out for a good quality olive oil, as it's crucial to bringing out the richness of the other ingredients. When it comes to choosing the eggplant, look for the ones that are firm and heavy with a smooth, shiny skin.
Ingredients for Linguine with Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce
Olive oil: A heart-healthy oil that plays a critical role in sautéing our vegetables to perfection. It adds a subtle richness to our sauce.
Onion: These add a necessary depth of flavor to the sauce, balancing the taste of the other ingredients.
Mushrooms: They add a hearty, earthy flavor to the dish.
Eggplant: Brings a delightful, meaty texture to the sauce, and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Salt: Used for seasoning, it brings out the flavor of all the ingredients.
Cayenne: Adds a little heat to the dish, enhancing the other flavors.
Thyme: This aromatic herb adds a warm, earthy note to the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: They make the base of our sauce, giving it a fresh and tangy taste.
Chicken broth: Adds a rich, savory note to the sauce.
Linguine: Long, flat pasta that holds onto our delicious sauce well.
One reader, Gabie Crosby says:
This linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The eggplant and mushrooms create a rich, hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with the linguine. It's a delightful dish that's both satisfying and delicious. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Cooking Techniques Required for This Pasta Dish
How to sauté the vegetables: In a large nonstick frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Increase the heat to moderately high and add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Reduce the heat to moderate, then add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir in the eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to simmer the sauce: Add the salt, cayenne, thyme, tomatoes, and broth to the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes until the eggplant is very tender.
How to cook the linguine: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the linguine for about 12 minutes until just done. Drain, then toss with the sauce.
How To Make Linguine with Eggplant-and-Mushroom Sauce
Put together a classy dinner with this linguine recipe. It comes with a delicious eggplant and mushroom sauce simmered in broth with tomatoes and spices.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3tbspolive oil
- 1onion
- ½lbmushrooms
- 1eggplant
- 1¼tspsalt
- tspcayenne
- ¾tspdried thyme
- 1¾cupcanned crushed tomatoes,(one 15 oz can), in thick puree
- 1/2cupchicken broth,canned, low sodium, or homemade stock
- 3/4lb.linguine
Instructions
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In a large nonstick frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderately low heat.
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Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
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Increase the heat to moderately high and add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
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Reduce the heat to moderate. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan.
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Stir in the eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the salt, cayenne, thyme, tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
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Reduce the heat and simmer, covered for about 30 minutes until the eggplant is very tender.
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Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the linguine for about 12 minutes until just done. Drain, then toss with the sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 509.46kcal
- Fat: 12.55g
- Saturated Fat: 1.87g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.93g
- Carbohydrates: 85.23g
- Fiber: 10.01g
- Sugar: 14.69g
- Protein: 17.04g
- Cholesterol: 0.90mg
- Sodium: 978.77mg
- Calcium: 80.07mg
- Potassium: 1072.81mg
- Iron: 3.50mg
- Vitamin A: 13.67µg
- Vitamin C: 16.41mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Linguine Recipe
When cooking the eggplant, make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Also, when adding the salt, cayenne, and thyme, sprinkle them evenly over the eggplant rather than dumping them in one spot. This will help distribute the flavors more evenly throughout the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Eggplant and Mushroom Pasta
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and the sauce simultaneously to save time on cleaning up.
Quick simmer: Increase the heat to bring the sauce to a simmer more rapidly, reducing the cooking time.
Efficient multitasking: While the sauce is simmering, use that time to cook the pasta, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.
Easy cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the process more efficient.
Substitute Ingredients For Linguine with Eggplant-and-Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile to olive oil and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
- onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the sauce.
- mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and texture to regular mushrooms, making them a suitable substitute in the sauce.
- eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good substitute for eggplant in the sauce.
- salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar level of salinity and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- cayenne - Substitute with paprika: Paprika adds a mild heat and smoky flavor, similar to cayenne, without overwhelming the dish.
- dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano offers a similar earthy and herbaceous flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the sauce.
- canned crushed tomatoes - Substitute with fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used to make a homemade tomato sauce, providing a vibrant and fresh flavor to the dish.
- chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds depth of flavor and richness to the sauce, similar to chicken broth.
- linguine - Substitute with spaghetti: Spaghetti has a similar shape and texture to linguine, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
Best Way to Present Linguine With Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce
Elevate the plating: When presenting the linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the dish and consider using a circular mold to neatly stack the linguine in the center of the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Sprinkle the herbs over the linguine and around the edges of the plate for a pop of vibrant green.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish for contrast. Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs can be sprinkled over the top of the linguine to provide a delightful textural component.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a high-quality olive oil over the linguine. The addition of the oil not only enhances the flavors but also adds a glossy sheen to the dish, elevating its visual appeal.
Use a fine cheese: Grate a generous amount of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano over the linguine just before serving. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a rich and savory element to the dish.
Consider the plate shape: Opt for a round or oval-shaped plate to complement the long strands of linguine. The shape of the plate can enhance the overall visual impact of the dish.
Balance the colors: When plating, consider the color contrast. The deep purple of the eggplant and the earthy tones of the mushrooms can be complemented by a vibrant red tomato sauce. Arrange the components thoughtfully to create an aesthetically pleasing balance of colors on the plate.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details, such as wiping the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation. A meticulous approach to plating demonstrates a high level of culinary skill and professionalism.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Large nonstick frying pan: A pan with a nonstick coating, ideal for sautéing and frying without ingredients sticking to the surface.
Large pot: Used for boiling pasta or other ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring and mixing ingredients, especially in hot dishes.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used to drain liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating ingredients like cheese or vegetables.
Large spoon: A versatile kitchen utensil used for stirring, serving, and transferring food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Lid: A cover for a pot or pan used to retain heat and steam during cooking.
Can opener: A tool used for opening cans of ingredients such as crushed tomatoes or broth.
Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving and presenting the finished dish.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Linguine With Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce
- Let the linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- If using a container, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Refrigerator storage: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer storage: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- When ready to use the frozen sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- Boil fresh linguine and toss with the reheated sauce before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How To Reheat Leftover Linguine With Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce
- Reheat the linguine and eggplant and mushroom sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
- For a crispier texture, reheat the linguine and eggplant and mushroom sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to prevent the pasta from sticking. Stir frequently until the dish is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
- If you have extra time, reheat the linguine and eggplant and mushroom sauce in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
- For a quick and easy lunch, reheat individual portions of the linguine and eggplant and mushroom sauce in a microwave-safe container. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the container, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid reheating the linguine and eggplant and mushroom sauce more than once. If you have a large amount of leftovers, consider reheating only the portion you plan to eat and storing the rest in the refrigerator for later.
Interesting Trivia About Linguine With Eggplant and Mushroom Sauce
Linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Sicily. It is a popular vegetarian pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant and mushrooms with tangy tomato sauce. This dish is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a healthy and delicious option for a satisfying meal.
Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?
The linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as mushrooms, eggplant, and canned crushed tomatoes, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for the entire family. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, taste, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:
Healthy elements:
- Eggplant and mushrooms are nutrient-dense vegetables, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Onions offer prebiotics and antioxidants
- Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, vitamin C, and other beneficial compounds
- Using olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe lacks a significant source of lean protein
- Depending on the sodium content of the canned tomatoes and chicken broth, the dish may be high in salt
- The recipe doesn't include any leafy greens or other colorful vegetables to boost the nutritional value
To elevate the health quotient of this dish, I would suggest the following tweaks:
- Incorporate a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a more balanced meal
- Reduce the amount of salt added and opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes and chicken broth to control the overall sodium content
- Add a handful of spinach or kale to the sauce for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals
- Experiment with whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to add a pop of color and freshness
Editor's Opinion on This Linguine Recipe
This linguine with eggplant and mushroom sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The earthy mushrooms and tender eggplant create a rich and satisfying sauce, while the cayenne and thyme add a subtle kick and aromatic depth. The use of canned crushed tomatoes and chicken broth enhances the sauce's savory profile. The linguine serves as the perfect canvas to soak up the delicious sauce, resulting in a comforting and hearty dish. Overall, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and is sure to impress anyone looking for a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish.
Enhance Your Linguine with Eggplant-and-Mushroom Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With This Pasta Recipe
Why trust this Linguine with Eggplant-and-Mushroom Sauce Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a flavorful experience with mushrooms and eggplant as the stars. The combination of olive oil and chicken broth creates a rich and savory sauce, while the addition of cayenne and dried thyme adds a delightful kick. The use of linguine ensures a satisfying and hearty meal. Trust in the balance of flavors and the expertise behind this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious and comforting dish.
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