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A bowl of delicious Roasted Eggplant Pasta, with rigatoni, blistered cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan.
Layla

Roasted Eggplant and Cherry Tomato Pasta

This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish features tender, smoky roasted eggplant and sweet burst cherry tomatoes tossed with al dente pasta in a light garlic-herb sauce. A perfect vegetarian meal that's both comforting and fresh.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Eggplant & Tomatoes
  • 1 large eggplant cubed (1-inch pieces)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta e.g., penne, rigatoni, or farfalle
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Equipment

  • Large Baking Sheet
  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine the cubed eggplant, halved cherry tomatoes, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  2. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and lightly caramelized, and the tomatoes have burst and softened.
  3. While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add the roasted eggplant and cherry tomato mixture to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup and add more if needed to create a light sauce). Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and vegetables. Stir in the fresh basil and parsley.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the vegetables before roasting. This dish is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth if dry.