Pasta alla norma –Are you ready to treat your taste buds to a delicious dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine? Look no further than this delightful Pasta alla Norma featuring rich tomato sauce, roasted eggplant, and a sprinkle of fresh basil! Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Pasta alla Norma
This classic Sicilian dish combines the simplicity of pasta with the hearty flavor of eggplant, making it a beloved favorite. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouth-watering meal!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
- 1 medium eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by prepping your eggplant. Sprinkle the diced eggplant with salt and let it sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and sauté for about 10 minutes, or until golden and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the sauce is ready, return the sautéed eggplant to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful Pasta alla Norma!
A bowl of Pasta alla Norma is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Italian trattoria. Buon appetito!
