Pasta alla Norma

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta alla Norma is the epitome of Mediterranean flavors. The deep richness of fried eggplant pairs wonderfully with the bright acidity of the tomato sauce. The addition of ricotta salata brings a salty, creamy touch that complements the whole dish perfectly. It’s a vegetarian pasta that’s hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect option for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (rigatoni, spaghetti, or penne)

• 1 large eggplant, cut into cubes

• 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 1/2 cup ricotta salata cheese, grated or crumbled

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant cubes and fry them until golden and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set it aside.

2. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the garlic over medium heat for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

5. Add the cooked eggplant to the sauce, and toss to combine. If needed, add some of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

6. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and eggplant mixture, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly.

7. Serve the pasta in bowls, topping with grated ricotta salata and chopped basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meat Version: You can add ground beef or sausage to the sauce for a heartier option, though this is not traditional to the Sicilian version.

• Vegan Version: For a dairy-free alternative, substitute ricotta salata with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.

• Add Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for a more colorful and varied dish.

• Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some finely chopped chili peppers for a spicier version of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Pasta alla Norma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra olive oil or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in Pasta alla Norma?

While ricotta salata is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Parmesan. However, ricotta salata provides a unique texture and flavor that is hard to replace.

Can I skip frying the eggplant?

Frying the eggplant gives it a crispy texture and enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step if you want a lighter version. Instead, you can roast the eggplant in the oven or sauté it in a little olive oil.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Pasta alla Norma gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients in this dish are naturally gluten-free.

How do I get the eggplant to cook evenly?

To ensure even cooking, cut the eggplant into cubes of similar size. Fry the cubes in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause uneven cooking.

Can I make Pasta alla Norma ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the eggplant ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, combine with the sauce, and top with cheese and basil.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you may need to cook them down longer to create a sauce. Be sure to peel and crush them before adding to the pan.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken, or add a spoonful of tomato paste to help achieve the desired consistency.

What type of pasta is best for Pasta alla Norma?

Traditionally, larger pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne work well because they hold the sauce better. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, including spaghetti or linguine.

How can I add more flavor to the eggplant?

To add more flavor to the eggplant, season it with a bit of salt before frying and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also sprinkle a little garlic powder or Italian seasoning on the eggplant before cooking.

Can I add more herbs to this recipe?

Yes, fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or mint can be added to the sauce or used as a garnish for extra flavor. Basil is traditional, but feel free to experiment.

Conclusion

Pasta alla Norma is a timeless Sicilian dish that delivers incredible flavors in every bite. The combination of fried eggplant, savory tomato sauce, and salty ricotta salata is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a special treat, Pasta alla Norma is sure to impress. With its simple yet vibrant flavors, it’s a dish that everyone will love.