Pasta alla Cenere

Name: Pasta alla Cenere
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 medium smoked eggplant (about 1 cup, cubed); 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic (minced); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: November 1, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Pasta alla Cenere

This incredible Pasta alla Cenere transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pasta alla Cenere:

Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta; I recommend penne or fettuccine for their great sauce-holding capabilities.
Smoked Eggplant: This adds that signature smoky flavor; roast it over an open flame if you can!
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious texture that coats each noodle perfectly – don’t skimp here!
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; never underestimate its power!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan is non-negotiable for that salty depth of flavor.

For the seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all those lovely flavors together; season generously but taste as you go.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pasta alla Cenere:

Step 1: Roast the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice your eggplant into thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before roasting for about 20 minutes until they’re beautifully charred.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant – watch it closely because burnt garlic is sad garlic!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted eggplant to the skillet along with the heavy cream. Stir everything together gently while gradually adding in that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Mix with Pasta

Toss in the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir well until every noodle is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer onto plates and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper for that perfect finishing touch.

Now sit back and enjoy your culinary masterpiece! This comforting dish is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to be seated at your table tonight!

You Must Know About Pasta alla Cenere

This showstopping Pasta alla Cenere delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To nail the cooking sequence for Pasta alla Cenere, start by boiling your pasta until al dente while simultaneously preparing your sauce. This multitasking approach ensures everything finishes at the same time for a seamless dining experience.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Pasta alla Cenere! Swap in different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, use whole grain pasta for extra fiber, or add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pasta alla Cenere

This professional-quality Pasta alla Cenere relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes, when I whip up Pasta alla Cenere for friends, their eyes widen like kids in a candy store! The compliments keep flowing, proving that food really brings people together and creates lasting memories.

FAQs

What is Pasta alla Cenere?

Pasta alla Cenere is a delightful Italian dish that showcases the rich flavors of charcoal-grilled vegetables. The name translates to “pasta in ashes,” reflecting its unique smoky taste. Traditionally, this dish combines pasta with roasted eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all infused with the essence of charred ingredients. The result is a hearty yet light meal that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among pasta enthusiasts.

How do you make Pasta alla Cenere?

To create Pasta alla Cenere, start by grilling your choice of vegetables until they achieve a nice char. While the vegetables cool, cook your pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add the grilled vegetables and mix well. Toss the cooked pasta into this mixture along with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. Finally, serve it with a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of richness.

What ingredients are needed for Pasta alla Cenere?

The key ingredients for Pasta alla Cenere include pasta (like spaghetti or penne), assorted grilled vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, salt, and pepper. For those who enjoy cheese, consider adding grated Parmesan or pecorino on top before serving. These components come together to create a deliciously smoky and satisfying dish that embodies Italian culinary traditions.

Can I customize my Pasta alla Cenere?

Absolutely! One of the great aspects of Pasta alla Cenere is its versatility. You can swap in different vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Consider adding spinach for more greens or even proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp if you’re not strictly vegetarian. Experimenting with various herbs and spices can also elevate the flavor profile to suit your tastes while keeping the essence of this unique dish intact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pasta alla Cenere is an exquisite dish that brings together the delightful flavors of grilled vegetables and pasta in perfect harmony. With its smoky aroma and vibrant colors, it stands out as an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you stick to traditional ingredients or decide to customize it according to your preferences, you will surely enjoy this delicious recipe. Embrace the charm of Italian cuisine with Pasta alla Cenere and impress your family and friends at your next gathering!

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