Eggplant Caponata

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 35 min

Total Time: 45 min

Servings: 8

RECIPE INGREDIENTS

  • 1/2 cup Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil (approx.)
  • 4 each garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
  • 1 small hot pepper, crushed (optional)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 eggplant, peeled and diced
  • 4 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 canned tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (approx.)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup golden or dark raisins
  • 2 tbsp capers in vinegar, drained

RECIPE DIRECTIONS

    • Heat olive oil in large sauté pan set over medium heat; cook garlic for 2 minutes or just until fragrant. Add onion, and hot pepper (if using); cook for 8 minutes or until softened.
    • Add diced eggplant and a little olive oil if necessary to gently coat the eggplant; cook, tossing frequently, for 12 to 15 minutes or until eggplant is softened.
    • Add celery and tomatoes; cook for 10 to 15 minutes or mixture is moist, softened and well mixed. Add salt; reduce as needed until jam-like consistency.
    • Add pine nuts, raisins and capers, and toss to mix well. Season with salt to taste. Let cool slightly; serve warm, at room temperature or cold.

    Tip: Serve with an assortment of crisp breads.

    Recipe provided by Francesco Tonelli.