Meatless Monday - Eggplant Pomodoro

It's Monday and it's still February.  So here's another meatless recipe for you!  

• We like eggplant as a great tasting meatless option and it's good for you too.  There are many, many great recipes using eggplant, here's one to get you started.  
• And HERE are some more to keep you going.

• Eggplant Pomodoro Pasta
• (printable)
• Adapted from Eatingwell.com
• 
  
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium eggplant, (about 1 pound), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 plum tomatoes, diced
• 1/3 cup chopped pitted green olives
• 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
• 4 teaspoons capers, rinsed
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, (optional)
• 12 ounces whole-wheat angel hair pasta
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, or basil

Put a pot of water on to boil.

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until just softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add tomatoes, olives, vinegar, capers, salt, pepper and crushed red pepper (if using) and cook, stirring, until the tomatoes begin to break down, 5 to 7 minutes more.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling water until just tender, about 6 minutes or according to package directions. Drain and divide the pasta among serving plates. Spoon the sauce over the pasta and sprinkle parsley (or basil) on top.