Penne Ortolano

(from MMartin’s recipe box)

Source: Martha Stewart Newsletter

Categories: Pasta

Ingredients

  • 3 cups penne pasta
  • 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed
  • 1/2 small eggplant, cut into 2-inch-by-1/2-inch strips (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 small zucchini, cut into 2-inch-by-1/2-inch strips (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into cut into 2-inch-by-1/2-inch strips (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 sprig fresh basil, leaves removed and torn into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for serving (optional)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; add penne. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain reserving 1/4 cup cooking water.

  2. 2. Meanwhile, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until lightly golden. Add eggplant and cook until browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Add zucchini and cook until softened, about 1 minute. Add peppers and cook until softened, about 1 minute. Add half the basil; season with a pinch of salt. Stir in tomatoes, and cook for about 3 minutes. Add cooked penne and enough reserved cooking water to loosen the mixture slightly. Toss to combine. Stir in remaining basil. Drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil; season with salt. Divide evenly between two serving plates; serve immediately with cheese, if desired.

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