What To Know
- It has a good surface area for absorbing the sauce, and its hollow center allows for a nice filling of eggplant and cheese.
- It is a good choice for eggplant parmesan because it cooks evenly and can hold a lot of sauce.
- The best way to cook eggplant for eggplant parmesan is to slice it evenly, salt it, dredge it in flour, and fry it in hot oil.
Eggplant parmesan is a classic Italian dish that has become a favorite around the world. The combination of tender eggplant, flavorful marinara sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. But what is the best pasta to use for this dish?
Types of Pasta Suitable for Eggplant Parmesan
There are several types of pasta that can be used for eggplant parmesan, each with its own unique texture and flavor. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Rigatoni
Rigatoni is a large, hollow tube-shaped pasta that is perfect for holding the eggplant and sauce. Its sturdy texture can withstand the long cooking process without becoming mushy.
2. Penne
Penne is a short, cylindrical pasta with a slightly slanted end. It has a good surface area for absorbing the sauce, and its hollow center allows for a nice filling of eggplant and cheese.
3. Ziti
Ziti is a long, hollow tube-shaped pasta that is similar to rigatoni but slightly thinner. It is a good choice for eggplant parmesan because it cooks evenly and can hold a lot of sauce.
4. Spaghetti
Spaghetti is a thin, round pasta that can be used for a variety of dishes. It is a good choice for eggplant parmesan if you prefer a lighter texture.
5. Lasagna Sheets
Lasagna sheets are wide, flat pasta sheets that are used for making lasagna. They can also be used for eggplant parmesan, but they will need to be cut into smaller pieces before cooking.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pasta
When choosing the best pasta for eggplant parmesan, there are a few factors to consider:
- Texture: The texture of the pasta should be firm enough to hold up to the eggplant and sauce, but not so firm that it becomes rubbery.
- Shape: The shape of the pasta should allow for it to hold the sauce and cheese well.
- Flavor: The flavor of the pasta should complement the eggplant and sauce without overpowering it.
Recommended Pasta for Eggplant Parmesan
Based on the factors discussed above, here are our top recommended pasta choices for eggplant parmesan:
- Rigatoni: Our overall top choice for eggplant parmesan. Its sturdy texture and large hollow shape make it ideal for holding the eggplant and sauce.
- Penne: A close second choice, penne is a versatile pasta that is well-suited for a variety of sauces.
- Ziti: A good choice for those who prefer a slightly thinner pasta. Its hollow center allows for a nice filling of eggplant and cheese.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Eggplant Parmesan
In addition to choosing the right pasta, there are a few other tips for cooking the perfect eggplant parmesan:
- Choose the right eggplant: Look for eggplants that are firm and heavy with smooth, unblemished skin.
- Slice the eggplant evenly: This will help to ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Salt the eggplant: This will help to draw out the excess moisture.
- Dredge the eggplant in flour: This will help to create a crispy crust.
- Fry the eggplant in hot oil: This will help to seal in the flavor and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Use a flavorful marinara sauce: The marinara sauce is the backbone of eggplant parmesan, so make sure to use a good quality sauce.
- Layer the eggplant parmesan properly: Start with a layer of sauce, then add the eggplant, followed by the cheese. Repeat the layers until the dish is full.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Eggplant Parmesan
Choosing the right pasta for eggplant parmesan is an important step in creating a delicious dish. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this guide, you can elevate your eggplant parmesan to the next level.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the best way to cook eggplant for eggplant parmesan?
A: The best way to cook eggplant for eggplant parmesan is to slice it evenly, salt it, dredge it in flour, and fry it in hot oil.
Q: What is the best marinara sauce to use for eggplant parmesan?
A: The best marinara sauce to use for eggplant parmesan is a flavorful sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs.
Q: How do I prevent my eggplant parmesan from becoming soggy?
A: To prevent your eggplant parmesan from becoming soggy, make sure to salt the eggplant before cooking and fry it in hot oil.
