Recipe by: Vegaliano

Serving Size: This recipe serves 4-6 people as a main dish or side.

Vegan Sicilian Caponata is a classic dish from the heart of Sicily, full of vibrant flavors and textures. This plant-based version is made with Vegan Ragu Peppers Sauce, which brings together the pop of Mediterranean flavors. The dish is further enhanced with the briny goodness of olives and capers, creating a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that makes this caponata irresistible.

This hearty dish is perfect served as a side to pasta, spread on toasted bread, or as a standalone meal with a side of vegan mozzarella. Using Vegan Ragu Peppers Sauce saves time while delivering authentic Sicilian flavor straight to your kitchen!

Fun Fact About Caponata: Caponata is a Sicilian vegetable dish typically made with eggplant, tomatoes, and capers. It’s a fantastic example of Mediterranean cuisine, where sweet, sour, and savory flavors come together in harmony.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, diced
• 1 red onion, minced 
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted whole or chopped
• 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, whole
• 1 cup Vegan Ragu Peppers Sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Eggplant:
   Add the diced eggplant to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant softens and begins to brown, about 8-10 minutes. If necessary, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
3. Add the Sauce and Other Ingredients:
   Stir in the Vegan Ragu Peppers Sauce, green olives, capers, red wine vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
4. Finish and Serve:
   Remove from heat and let the caponata cool slightly. Serve as a side dish, with crusty bread, or as a topping for pasta.

This Vegan Sicilian Caponata is the perfect way to bring the flavors of Sicily to your kitchen. With its savory, tangy, and slightly sweet combination of ingredients, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Serve it on its own or with pasta, and enjoy this classic Mediterranean treat. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on Instagram using #VegalianoEats!

Swipe This for That Tip: For extra depth of flavor, add some toasted pine nuts or raisins to the caponata. You can also try using black olives instead of green for a different taste.