Name: Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Eggplant (Can substitute with zucchini); 2 cups Diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons Tomato paste; 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar (Can swap with white vinegar); 1 tablespoon Honey (Replace with agave syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Adjust to taste); 12 ounces Orecchiette (Can substitute with gluten-free pasta); 1 tablespoon Kosher salt; 4 ounces Goat cheese (Can use feta or omit for dairy-free); 1/2 cup Pecans (Substitute walnuts if preferred); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (For garnish); 1 medium Shallot (Can substitute with onion); 3 tablespoons Olive oil (Divided use); 1/4 cup Raisins (Optional)

As I grilled the eggplant, the smoky aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to summertime barbecues and sun-drenched evenings on the patio. This Smokin’ Charred Eggplant Pasta with Goat Cheese & Pecans showcases a delightful marriage of earthy flavors and bright notes—perfect for anyone tired of ordinary weeknight meals. With its quick prep time and vibrant colors, this vegetarian dish shines as a standout summer dinner. The unique combination of creamy goat cheese and the unexpected crunch of pecans bring comfort while adding a twist to traditional pasta recipes. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game and impress your guests? Let’s dive in!

Why is this pasta so special?

Unique Flavor Profile: The smoky char of the eggplant blends beautifully with the sweetness of tomatoes and tangy goat cheese, creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds.

Quick & Easy: With a simple prep process, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time, perfect for those busy summer evenings.

Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, like orecchiette or penne, making this recipe adaptable for any palate and dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: The creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans add layers of texture, ensuring this pasta will be a hit at any dinner gathering.

Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber and healthy fats, this vegetarian dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. For another wonderful vegetarian option, check out my Pasta Cherry Tomatoes.

Charred Eggplant Pasta Ingredients

For the Sauce

Eggplant – Provides the base sauce; char for depth of flavor. Note: Can substitute with zucchini if desired.
Diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity to the sauce to balance the richness of the goat cheese.
Tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce for a richer taste.
Red wine vinegar – Provides tanginess to enhance the flavor; can swap with white vinegar.
Honey – Adds a sweet balance; replace with agave syrup for a vegan option.
Red pepper flakes – Introduces a touch of heat; adjust to taste for your preferred level of spice.

For the Pasta

Orecchiette – Main carbohydrate base; can substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
Kosher salt – Enhances flavors in the dish for a more vibrant taste.

For the Toppings

Goat cheese – Melts into sauce for creaminess; can use feta or omit for a dairy-free version.
Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness; substitute walnuts if preferred.
Fresh parsley – For garnish, adds freshness and color to the final dish.

Extras

Shallot – Offers sweetness and depth to the sauce; substitute with onion if unavailable.
Olive oil – Adds richness to sauce and helps bring ingredients together elegantly.
Raisins – Optional for sweetness and texture; omit for a more savory dish if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Char the Eggplant
Begin by preheating your grill to high heat. Once ready, place the whole eggplant directly on the grill grates. Char the eggplant for about 20 minutes, turning it every 5 minutes until the skin is blackened and the flesh is tender. This process adds a deep smokiness that will flavor your Charred Eggplant Pasta beautifully.

Step 2: Cool and Chop the Eggplant
Once the eggplant is charred, carefully remove it from the grill and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s easy to handle, peel away the charred skin and chop the flesh into bite-sized pieces. Set these aside as they will form the rich base of your sauce for the delicious Charred Eggplant Pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest, setting aside the pasta for later.

Step 4: Toast the Pecans
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the pecans and toast them for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning, then remove them from the skillet and set aside. This adds delicious crunch to your Charred Eggplant Pasta.

Step 5: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are caramelized and soft. This step adds a sweet depth to the sauce that complements the charred eggplant in your pasta dish.

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt to the sautéed shallots. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce, enhancing the overall profile of your Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese.

Step 7: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Spice
Next, stir in the tomato paste and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional minute. This will concentrate the tomato flavor while adding a hint of heat. The aroma will transform your kitchen into a cozy Italian trattoria as the sauce begins to come together beautifully.

Step 8: Simmer with Eggplant and Additional Ingredients
Now, add the chopped charred eggplant, red wine vinegar, honey, and raisins to the skillet. Simmer this mixture for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The unique combination will deepen the flavor of your Charred Eggplant Pasta and create a delightful sauce.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Carefully add the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the eggplant sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the consistency of the sauce to your liking. Stir everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the delicious eggplant sauce.

Step 10: Finish with Olive Oil and Parsley
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the combined pasta and sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Then fold in the fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Your Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese is now ready for plating!

Step 11: Plate and Garnish
Serve the pasta in bowls or on a plate, topping each serving with crumbled goat cheese and the toasted pecans. The melting goat cheese will add creaminess, making your dish irresistible. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and get ready to savor this delicious, smoky pasta dish.

Storage Tips for Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese

Fridge: Store any leftover charred eggplant pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavors and keep it fresh for your meals.
Freezer: Freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure it warms evenly.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and maintain flavor integrity.

What to Serve with Smokin’ Charred Eggplant Pasta with Goat Cheese & Pecans

Nothing complements this delicious pasta quite like the perfect side dishes to elevate your meal and delight your senses.

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, contrasting the creamy pasta beautifully.
Grilled Zucchini: Tender, charred zucchini enhances the dish’s flavors while infusing summer vibes into your meal.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness provides a lovely burst of flavor, amplifying the taste of the tangy goat cheese.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc can perfectly balance the rich flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Plum Galette: Finish the meal with a sweet, flaky galette that pairs wonderfully with the smoky notes of your pasta dish.

Tips for the Best Charred Eggplant Pasta

Perfectly Charred Eggplant: Ensure the eggplant is blackened on all sides to achieve a deep, smoky flavor that elevates your pasta dish.
Reserve Pasta Water: Save ½ cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and brings everything together beautifully.
Adjust the Spice: Start with a pinch of red pepper flakes and adjust according to your spice tolerance. You can always add more if desired!
Creamy Goat Cheese: For a deliciously creamy sauce, don’t skip the goat cheese; allow it to melt into your Charred Eggplant Pasta for a richer taste.
Skip the Raisins: If you’re not a fan of sweetness in savory dishes, feel free to omit the raisins without losing the core flavor of this delightful recipe.

Charred Eggplant Pasta Variations

Get ready to unlock the full potential of your dish with these exciting variations!

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute goat cheese with cashew cream for a creamy texture and nutty flavor without the dairy.
Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or kale just before serving for a pop of color, nutrition, and added texture.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta like quinoa or lentil-based varieties to keep this dish friendly for gluten-sensitive diners.

For a fresh take, think about adding roasted bell peppers or zucchini. Sauté them along with the shallots for an added burst of flavor!

Smoky Flavor Boost: Add a dash of smoked paprika when cooking the shallots for an intensified smoky profile to complement the eggplant.
Heat Level: Adjust the spice by adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy some fiery heat.
Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans with toasted almonds or pine nuts for a different crunch and flavor.

If you love salads, check out my vibrant Spring Orzo Pasta or try this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta for something different!

Herb Swaps: Replace fresh parsley with fresh basil or dill to give the dish a completely new aromatic experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Smokin’ Charred Eggplant Pasta with Goat Cheese & Pecans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can char the eggplant and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply grill the eggplant, peel and chop it, then proceed with cooking the sauce as instructed. To keep the flavors fresh, store the cooked pasta separately, and combine them just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, add the pasta, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Charred Eggplant Pasta with Tomatoes & Goat Cheese Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting eggplants?
Choose eggplants that are firm, glossy, and heavy for their size. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes—these can indicate overripeness. A fresh eggplant should feel slightly soft but should spring back when you press on it.

How should I store leftover charred eggplant pasta?
Store any leftover charred eggplant pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavors and freshness. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.

Can I freeze charred eggplant pasta?
Absolutely! Freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Ensure it has cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of water or olive oil to restore its creaminess.

What can I do if the eggplant is too bitter?
If you find your eggplant is overly bitter, try salting it before cooking. Slice it, sprinkle salt on both sides, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The salt draws out excess moisture and bitterness; just remember to rinse and pat it dry before cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
For those with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans or replace them with a crunchy seed like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. The dish will still taste fantastic without them, and the flavor and texture will remain delightful.

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, you can easily make this charred eggplant pasta vegan! Substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and use agave syrup instead of honey. This way, you’ll still enjoy a creamy and delicious dish without any animal products.