Why You Should Try This Recipe?

Do you want a dish that feels gourmet but is easy to prepare? Are you craving the rich flavors of smoky lardons paired with the earthy taste of eggplant? This recipe not only meets these cravings but also offers the convenience of a simple cooking process. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions!

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 500 g of linguine
• 1 jar of tomato coulis
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1 to 2 eggplants
• 250 g of lardons
• Fresh basil leaves
• A splash of olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring water to a boil for the pasta.
2. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic.
3. Dice the eggplant into small cubes.
4. In a pan, heat a little olive oil over low heat, and sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and slightly golden.
5. Add the diced eggplant to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes over low heat.
6. Stir in the tomato coulis, salt, and pepper, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
7. While the sauce is cooking, in a separate skillet, cook the lardons until they are crispy.
8. Add the cooked lardons to the sauce mixture.
9. Once the linguine is al dente, drain and add it to the sauce, cooking for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

This dish can be easily modified with other vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for different tastes. Experiment by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even chickpeas for extra texture and flavor!

Recipe Tips

• For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• If you’d like to keep it vegetarian, simply omit the lardons and substitute with mushrooms.
• Pair this dish with a side salad for a more complete meal.

Nutritional Information

This dish provides an estimated 450 calories per serving, including carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat linguine instead?

Yes, whole wheat linguine can be used as a healthier alternative.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Omit the lardons and use vegetable broth for flavor enhancement.

How do I add more flavor to the sauce?

Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can significantly enhance the flavor.