Sautéed Eggplant and Tomatoes (melanzane a funghetto) is a quick side dish that’s simple to prepare and good for you. Can be served as a side, as part of an antipasto, as a topping for bread, or on top of pasta.
In a large skillet, over medium high heat, heat the olive oil and add the eggplant. Sprinkle with some salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
Sauté until the eggplant gets a little color and softens just a bit. This should take at least 5 minutes. Give them a stir here and there, then cover and let them stew for about 5 minutes.
Uncover and stir. You’ll notice the eggplant released some of the oil it had absorbed. Add the garlic and stir until fragrant. Then add the tomatoes, oregano, and some salt and pepper to your taste.
Stir and let cook uncovered for about 5 minutes or so to allow the tomatoes to break down a bit. The tomatoes should have “melted” and created a sauce.
Tear or slice the basil and stir it in. Remove from heat.
You can top with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese but this is delicious as is.
Can be served as a side, a light meal, as a topping for bread, or mixed with some pasta.