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Pasta alla Norma

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Pasta alla Norma is a classic Sicilian pasta dish featuring fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and the salty goodness of ricotta salata. This hearty yet vegetarian dish delivers bold Mediterranean flavors and is sure to satisfy any pasta lover. It’s a comforting meal with layers of savory, creamy, and crispy textures.

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

Instructions

  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.

Notes

  • 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.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pasta-alla-norma/