INGREDIENTS
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1 large (1.25 lb) eggplant, cut into 1/3-inch cubes
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Salt
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6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
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2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb), cut into 1/3-inch cubes
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1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 red, orange or yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice
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5 large cloves garlic, chopped
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5 large vine-ripened tomatoes (1.75 lb), cut into 1/3-inch cubes (do not seed and save the juice)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme, plus more for serving
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3/4 teaspoon sugar
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil