Chef Bihi Fusilli with Cherry Tomatoes, Eggplant, and Almond Paste
If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that embodies the essence of fresh produce and creativity, this fusilli recipe is for you. With the luscious taste of cherry tomatoes and the earthy notes of eggplant, paired with the unique texture of almond paste, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds! Ready to bring a splash of color to your meal? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 500g fusilli pasta
- 12 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 to 2 young onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons almond paste
- 2 teaspoons vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Fleur de sel to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- While waiting for the water to boil, finely slice the young onions and mince the garlic.
- Dice the eggplant into small cubes and quarter the cherry tomatoes.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over low heat and sauté the minced garlic and sliced onions until soft.
- Add the diced eggplant and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to soften.
- Stir in the quartered cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with 20 ml of water, stirring well to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and add the almond paste, mixing thoroughly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving a small amount of pasta water, and add it to the sauce, mixing well to combine.
- Serve garnished with fresh cherry tomatoes and additional sliced young onions if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the flavor even more!
Recipe Tips
- For extra creaminess, whisk an additional tablespoon of almond paste with a bit of reserved pasta water before mixing it into the sauce.
- Use fresh, seasonal tomatoes for the best flavor and color.
- Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to deepen the flavor.
Nutrition Information
This dish is rich in fiber from the pasta and vegetables, making it a wholesome option that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute the fusilli with gluten-free pasta of your choice.
- What other vegetables can I add?
- Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work wonderfully in this recipe.
- How can I store the leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes, ensure that the broth used is vegetable-based, and you can skip adding any animal products.
- Is there a way to make it spicier?
- Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to give it a spicy kick.
