Pasta alla Norma is a classic Sicilian dish that highlights the delicious combination of eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this traditional Italian recipe is both flavorful and satisfying.
“Cooking is at once child’s play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love.” – Craig Claiborne
Recipe Description
This traditional Pasta alla Norma recipe features tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and salty ricotta salata, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s a perfect representation of Sicilian cuisine, offering a delightful and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 400 grams (14 oz) rigatoni or penne
- 2 medium eggplants, diced
- 2 cups canned tomatoes, crushed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup ricotta salata, grated
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Salt the Eggplant: Place the diced eggplant in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
Make the Sauce
- Cook the Eggplant: In a large skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook until golden and tender, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add the crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add the cooked eggplant back to the skillet and mix well.
Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni or penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Combine and Serve
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated ricotta salata and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve immediately, with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoy this classic Pasta alla Norma as a delightful and hearty meal that showcases the best of Sicilian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Additional Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little extra olive oil.
- Variations: For a different twist, add some capers or olives to the sauce for extra flavor.
