Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner that's also easy on the wallet? Look no further! This eggplant and sausage recipe is a perfect example of a delicious dish that comes together effortlessly. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. This hearty and satisfying meal is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. Get ready to discover a new favorite among your easy recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant (about 1 pound), diced
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil
Instructions:
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Prep the Eggplant: Start by dicing the eggplant into roughly 1-inch cubes. This helps it cook evenly. To prevent the eggplant from releasing too much moisture, sprinkle it lightly with salt and let it sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess water. Afterward, rinse and pat the eggplant dry with paper towels. This step significantly improves the final texture of the dish.
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Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the drained eggplant to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften slightly. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add Sausage and Finish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread for sopping up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for the Best Eggplant and Sausage:
- Don't skip salting the eggplant: This crucial step helps remove excess moisture, resulting in a less watery and more flavorful dish.
- Use good quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage will significantly impact the overall taste of the recipe. Don't hesitate to experiment with different types!
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of any spice according to your taste preferences. A pinch of sugar can also help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Serve with a side: This recipe is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This simple eggplant and sausage recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are quick and easy to prepare. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!