Hot Baba Ghanoush With Pasta
Description
This unconventional dish transforms traditional baba ghanoush into a hearty pasta sauce. By roasting the eggplant until charred and soft, you unlock a deep, smoky flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the creaminess of tahini and yogurt. The addition of dry sherry adds a subtle complexity, while lemon juice and cayenne provide a bright, spicy kick. Unlike cold dips, this warm sauce clings beautifully to al dente pasta, creating a comforting texture. It is an ideal weeknight dinner that feels sophisticated yet simple to prepare. The combination of smoky, tangy, and savory notes makes this a satisfying vegetarian option that appeals to both fans of Mediterranean flavors and pasta lovers alike.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
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Lightly oil a baking sheet. Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and place cut side down on the baking sheet.
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Pierce the skin of the eggplant several times with a fork to prevent bursting.
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Bake for 40 minutes, or until the eggplant is very soft, collapsing, and charred in spots.
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Remove from oven and let cool until handleable. Scoop the flesh out of the skins and discard the skins.
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In a food processor or blender, combine the eggplant flesh, yogurt, tahini, dry sherry, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and cayenne.
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Puree until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to reach desired consistency.
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Let the sauce sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
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While pasta cooks, gently warm the baba ghanoush sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Do not boil.
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Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water if needed for loosening the sauce.
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Toss the hot pasta with the warm baba ghanoush sauce until evenly coated.
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Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 119.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.5g7%
- Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
- Cholesterol 0.3mg1%
- Sodium 2543.0mg106%
- Total Carbohydrate 17.0g6%
- Dietary Fiber 1.9g8%
- Sugars 3.6g
- Protein 3.8g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The original recipe mentioned adding Parmesan cheese. While unconventional with tahini, a sharp Pecorino or Parmesan can add a salty umami boost if desired.
For a vegan version, substitute the lowfat yogurt with a plant-based alternative like soy or almond yogurt.
Ensure the eggplant is thoroughly roasted to achieve the characteristic smoky flavor of baba ghanoush. Under-roasted eggplant will taste bland and watery.
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or pasta water to restore creaminess.