Pasta Alla Norma is a quintessential Sicilian dish that showcases the best flavors of Italy. This classic recipe combines rich tomato sauce, creamy eggplant, fragrant basil, and salty ricotta salata cheese for a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests, Pasta Alla Norma is a delicious way to bring a taste of Italy to your table.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 large eggplant, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
– Fresh basil leaves, torn
– Ricotta salata cheese, grated, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by salting the eggplant: Place the cubed eggplant in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse the eggplant well and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant cubes in a single layer and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
5. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
6. Add the cooked eggplant to the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Gently toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Serve the Pasta Alla Norma hot, garnished with torn basil leaves and a generous sprinkling of grated ricotta salata cheese.
Pasta Alla Norma is a traditional Italian dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of tender eggplant, flavorful tomato sauce, and aromatic basil creates a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of Italy, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Buon appetito!
