Quick & Cozy Eggplant Radiatori Pasta You Can Make Tonight
Discover this Quick and Simple Eggplant Radiatori — a comforting vegetarian pasta recipe made with tender eggplant, zesty tomato sauce, and crunchy panko topping. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor — perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
🍆 Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium eggplant about 1 lb / 450 g, diced into small cubes
- 8 oz 225 g radiatori pasta (or any short pasta like fusilli or penne)
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cups 480 ml tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup 240 ml water or vegetable broth (to cook pasta and adjust sauce consistency)
🌿 Seasoning & Flavor:
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano, basil & thyme
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional, for gentle heat
- 1 teaspoon sugar balances the acidity of tomato sauce
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided (for sautéing and toasting panko)
🍞 Topping:
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast adds cheesy, umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for toasting
🌿 Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves for serving
- Extra nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan optional
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and let it sizzle for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Eggplant
- Add the diced eggplant to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cubes are tender and lightly golden. Add a splash of water or broth if it starts to stick.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and sugar. Pour in the tomato sauce and 1 cup of water (or broth). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Radiatori
- Stir in the radiatori pasta directly into the sauce. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened — about 10–12 minutes. Add more water as needed to keep it saucy and smooth.
Step 5: Toast & Top
- In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and add panko breadcrumbs. Toast until golden, then stir in the nutritional yeast. Spoon the pasta into bowls, top with the crispy panko mixture, and finish with fresh basil leaves.