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Pasta Alla Norma

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Pasta alla Norma is a classic Sicilian dish featuring tender fried eggplant tossed with a garlicky tomato sauce and topped with salty ricotta salata. This hearty yet light pasta is bursting with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish, Pasta, Vegetarian
  • Method: Frying, simmering, boiling
  • Cuisine: Sicilian, Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

pounds eggplant

Olive oil (at least ½ cup), for frying

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

3 or 4 dried chiles

pounds tomatoes, chopped (canned or fresh)

1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano

1 pound long pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)

½ cup chopped parsley or basil

½ cup grated ricotta salata or pecorino Romano

Instructions

Slice eggplant into ½-inch rounds. In a large skillet, heat abundant olive oil and fry eggplant in batches without crowding, seasoning with salt and adding more oil as needed. Cook until golden and soft. Transfer to a plate.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.

Adjust oil in skillet to about 2 tablespoons. Over medium heat, add garlic and dried chiles; cook until garlic is lightly golden.

Add tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook until sauce is thick but still loose, stirring occasionally.

Cook pasta until al dente. Slice fried eggplant into strips and briefly reheat in the tomato sauce.

Drain pasta and toss with sauce and eggplant. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve topped with parsley or basil and a generous sprinkle of ricotta salata.

Notes

Roast eggplant at 400°F (200°C) for a lighter version.

Use fresh cherry tomatoes for a sweeter sauce in season.

Add sautéed mushrooms or capers for extra flavor.

Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Fresh oregano works well instead of dried.

Nutrition