Ingredients

8tbspolive oil

1¾lbseggplant

1¼tspsalt

2clovesgarlic

¾lbpenne

½cupfresh parsley,chopped

¼tspfresh ground black pepper

2tbsplemon juice

Preparation

In a large nonstick frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderate heat.

Add ⅓ of the eggplant and ¼ teaspoon of the salt and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender and brown.

Remove the eggplant from the pan and put it in a large bowl.

Cook the remaining eggplant in two batches, each using 2 tablespoons of the oil and salt.

Add the garlic to the last batch of eggplant during the final minute of cooking.

Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the penne for about 13 minutes until just done. Drain.

Rinse with cold water and drain thoroughly.

Transfer to the bowl with the eggplant.

Toss the pasta and eggplant with the remaining 2 tablespoons oil and salt, the parsley, pepper, and lemon juice.