Authentic Pasta alla Norma

Pasta alla Norma is a classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta salata. This delicious pasta dish is full of flavors and is a favorite in Italian cuisine. It's a perfect choice for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 medium-sized eggplants
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ricotta salata, grated

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the eggplant. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch thick slices and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry the eggplant slices with a paper towel.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the cooked eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Serve the pasta in bowls and top with the cooked eggplant slices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated ricotta salata.
7. Enjoy your authentic and delicious Pasta alla Norma!

Interesting Facts