Slimmed-Down Sicilian Caponata
A lighter take on the classic Sicilian caponata, under 250 calories per serving—perfect for a light lunch or as a vibrant pasta sauce.
- Prep10 min
- Cook40 min
- Total50 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
This caponata is a celebration of Mediterranean vegetables, roasted until sweet and tender, then tossed with briny olives, capers, and a hint of sweetness from golden raisins. It's a versatile dish that works beautifully as a side, a topping for crusty bread, or stirred through pasta.
The secret to keeping it light is roasting the vegetables with just a spray of oil, rather than frying them in the traditional way. The result is a deeply flavorful, satisfying dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly virtuous.
Ingredients
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F/350°F fan/gas 6. Place the aubergines, onion, and celery in a baking dish or shallow roasting tin. Spray lightly with cooking oil, season generously with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 25 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven and stir in the tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and dried marjoram or oregano. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes.
- Take the dish out and stir in the olives, capers, raisins, and most of the basil. Serve scattered with the remaining basil leaves and the toasted pine nuts, if using.
💡 Tips
- If you can't find gordal olives, any large green olives will work—just adjust the seasoning to taste.
- For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or toss with cooked pasta.
- The caponata can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
Inspired by a recipe from Delicious Magazine
