A bold and flavorful Sicilian-inspired pasta dish made with al dente rigatoni, roasted eggplant, green olives, fresh basil, and a rich tomato sauce—topped with a sprinkle of parmesan for the perfect savory finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rigatoni alla Siciliana brings the robust, sun-drenched flavors of Southern Italy right to your table. The dish combines roasted eggplant, briny green olives, and aromatic tomato sauce with pasta for a hearty and comforting meal. It’s vegetarian-friendly, easy to prepare, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for guests or enjoying a quiet dinner, this pasta offers both elegance and rustic charm.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 large eggplant, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1/2 cup green olives, pitted
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Handful of fresh basil leaves

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced eggplant with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.
2. While the eggplant roasts, cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chili flakes (if using), and green olives. Simmer the sauce for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add the roasted eggplant to the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegan: Omit the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Use different olives: Substitute green olives with kalamata or black olives for a deeper flavor.
• Add protein: Include chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein.
• Spicy version: Increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Try another pasta shape: Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can be used in place of rigatoni.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. This dish also reheats well in the microwave; stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use canned eggplant instead of roasting fresh?

Fresh roasted eggplant offers the best flavor and texture, but drained canned eggplant can work in a pinch.

What can I substitute for rigatoni?

You can use any short pasta like penne, ziti, or fusilli.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly so, and the chili flakes are optional—omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and roast the eggplant in advance. Store separately and combine with pasta before serving.

How do I prevent the eggplant from being too oily?

Toss with just enough oil to coat lightly before roasting, and spread it out evenly on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions to the sauce.

Should I peel the eggplant?

No, the skin becomes tender when roasted and adds texture and flavor.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A medium-bodied red like Nero d’Avola or Chianti complements the rich tomato and olive flavors.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to one month. Reheat and toss with fresh pasta.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it has familiar pasta and tomato flavors, though you may wish to omit olives or chili flakes for picky eaters.

Conclusion

Rigatoni alla Siciliana with Eggplant and Olives is a simple yet bold pasta dish that captures the essence of Sicilian cooking. With its robust flavors, easy preparation, and customizable ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Enjoy a warm, comforting plate that delivers Mediterranean depth with every bite.

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