Sicilian Soul: How to Make Authentic Pasta alla Norma
Straight from the sun-kissed kitchens of Catania, Pasta alla Norma is a celebration of bold Mediterranean flavors. Made with tender eggplant, sweet tomato sauce, and a touch of salty ricotta salata, this dish proves that simplicity is the heart of Italian cooking. Ready to bring Sicily to your table?
π₯ Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 12 oz pasta (traditionally rigatoni or penne)
- 1 large eggplant, diced into Β½-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 cup ricotta salata, grated (or substitute with pecorino or feta)
π² Instructions
Salt the Eggplant: Place diced eggplant in a colander, sprinkle generously with salt, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry to remove excess moisture and bitterness.
Fry the Eggplant: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Fry the eggplant in batches until golden and tender. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sautΓ© garlic until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 15β20 minutes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve Β½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
Combine: Toss the pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen it. Fold in most of the eggplant, saving some for topping.
Finish & Serve: Plate the pasta, top with remaining eggplant, grated ricotta salata, and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil for that final silky touch.
π¦ Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Perfect Pasta alla Norma
- π Non-Stick Frying Pan β Ideal for crisping eggplant with less oil.
- π San Marzano Tomatoes β Authentic Italian flavor, naturally sweet and rich.
- π§ Garlic Press β Quick and easy prep for full-bodied aromatics.
- π§ Red Pepper Flakes β Add a Sicilian kick to your sauce.
- π§ Ricotta Salata or Feta Cheese β Salty and crumbly, a must for this dish.
- πΏ Fresh Basil Plant or Dried Basil β Elevates flavor and adds color.
- π Pasta Pot with Strainer Insert β Cook and drain your pasta like a pro.
- πͺ Vegetable Chopper or Chefβs Knife β Perfect for prepping your eggplant with ease.
Pro Tip: Want to make it even more traditional? Use salted ricotta instead of ricotta salata and let the sauce simmer low and slow to deepen the flavors.