Easy Braised Eggplant and Tomato Vermicelli Pasta

Fresh, locally harvested tomatoes, tender eggplant, and crisp celery simmer down into a rich, savory sauce. Tossed with a touch of Italian herbs and spooned over delicate vermicelli noodles, this easy plant-based dish turns everyday vegetables into a comforting, vibrant meal that feels just right for any weeknight.

The taste of Autumn joy @ Montreal

9/1/2026

Making: 4 portions

INGREDIENTS

1 onion (72g), chopped
7 cloves garlic (27g), chopped
6 tomatoes (610g), halved
1 eggplant (530g), cut into thick strips and chunks
2 stalks celery (55g), sliced
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp Italian herbs
Fresh coriander, for garnish
250g Vermicelli Pasta

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.

2. Add the tomatoes, eggplant, and celery to the pan. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Use a spatula to mash the softened vegetables into smaller pieces. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 15 minutes, continuing to break down the vegetables as they soften further.

4. Uncover the pan and simmer on low for a final 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and Italian herbs, stirring well to combine.

5. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the vermicelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse briefly with cool water, and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

6. Divide the prepared vermicelli pasta among plates, spoon the rich eggplant and tomato sauce generously over the top, and garnish with fresh coriander.

Serve this comforting dish warm as a satisfying weeknight main, or pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete, vibrant meal.

La cartographie des saveurs Mixingredients

Cinq plats du monde, cuisinés au rythme des saisons du Québec

Un guide pour cuisiner avec une inspiration mondiale et des ingrédients de saison