Eggplant Parm Pasta Salad

August 22, 2025 by admin

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### For the Dressing:

* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or balsamic)
* 1 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 tsp dried oregano
* Salt and pepper, to taste

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## Instructions

### 1. Roast the Eggplant

* Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Toss the diced eggplant with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
* Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

### 2. Cook the Pasta

* Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
* Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process.

### 3. Make the Dressing

* In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, tomato paste, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

### 4. Assemble the Salad

* In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
* Pour the dressing over the top and toss well to coat.
* Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

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## Serving Suggestions

* Serve **warm** for a more traditional comfort food experience
* Chill for a few hours for a refreshing **summer salad**
* Add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein
* Serve with crusty bread and a side of arugula for a full meal

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## Tips for Success

* **Salt your eggplant**: For extra tender eggplant, sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes before roasting. Pat dry to remove bitterness.
* **Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta** to fit your dietary needs
* **Don’t skip the tomato paste in the dressing** — it ties the flavors together and gives a nod to traditional Eggplant Parm

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## Final Thoughts

This **Eggplant Parm Pasta Salad** is proof that comfort food can be light, vibrant, and picnic-friendly. It brings together the best of two worlds: the hearty, cheesy goodness of a classic Italian dish and the fresh, zesty charm of a well-made pasta salad.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a summer potluck or just want to shake up your weekly lunch prep, this recipe is as easy to make as it is unforgettable to eat.

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