Swordfish With Caramelized Eggplant and Capers

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Set a broiler rack 4 inches from the heat source, and heat the broiler. If grilling, heat your grill.

2. Step 2

   In a large bowl or on a rimmed baking sheet, toss eggplant with just enough oil to coat, and season with salt. Broil or grill until golden all over and charred in spots, 2 to 4 minutes per side.

3. Step 3

   As eggplant broils, or after you've grilled it, heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 2 tablespoons oil, and, when it’s hot, add onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté until onion is lightly browned in spots and soft, 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Add tomatoes and ¼ cup water, and simmer until the tomato breaks down and turns saucy, about 5 minutes. If the pan starts to dry out, add a splash of water.

5. Step 5

   Add eggplant to the pan, along with a drizzle of oil, and turn heat to medium-low. Cook until the mixture is very tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and season with more salt, if needed, and plenty of pepper. Use a slotted spoon to transfer eggplant mixture to a bowl and set aside. Raise heat to medium.

6. Step 6

   Without wiping out the pan, add butter and let it melt. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add wine, olives, capers and a small pinch of salt, and bring to a simmer. Add swordfish, and let cook, gently turning the pieces with a spoon so they don’t fall apart, until cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Return eggplant mixture to the pan and gently stir in parsley. Heat until the mixture bubbles, 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon or lime, if you like, and serve immediately.