Sicilian Splendor: Pasta alla Norma Recipe
Sicily, the sun-kissed island in the Mediterranean, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its rich and diverse cuisine. Among the many delectable dishes that hail from this region, Pasta Alla Norma stands as a shining star. This iconic Sicilian pasta dish is a harmonious blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Join us as we take a culinary journey to explore the beauty and tradition of Pasta Alla Norma and my signature substitute in this recipe.
Pasta Alla Norma is a dish that pays homage to the famous Italian composer Vincenzo Bellini and his renowned opera "Norma." The story goes that a Sicilian chef, upon tasting the dish, was so enchanted by its flavors that he declared it "a real Norma" in honor of Bellini's masterpiece. Since then, this classic pasta dish has become a beloved symbol of Sicilian cuisine.
The beauty of Pasta Alla Norma lies in its simplicity, relying on a handful of fresh and high-quality ingredients. Using harvest gifts of garden fresh eggplant and basil really elevates this recipe. I prepare my pasta alla norma with a little twist and substitute the traditional ricotta salata with a nice Parmesan. While the taste and texture of pasta alla norma is rich, it is easy to prepare and a great way to enjoy eggplant and fresh herbs.
Pasta alla Norma Ingredients
1 large eggplant, cubed
1/3 cup virgin olive oil
28 ounce can peeled, diced tomatoes
1/2 can (3 ounces) tomato paste
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup Parmesan + some for serving
1 teaspoon chili flakes (add more if you prefer it spicy)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/3 cup combined fresh parsley chopped and fresh basil, chopped
16 ounces penne pasta, cooked to instruction
Pasta alla Norma Technique
add olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat. Salt eggplant cubes and add to pan to saute until golden brown. Once the eggplant is browned, remove from pan and set aside.
using the same pan, saute garlic, chili flakes and tomato paste and allow to cook out for about two minutes. Add tomatoes and allow to simmer. Add oregano, season to taste.
next, add the browned eggplant cubes into the sauce and allow to simmer. Once combined, add prepared pasta and toss well.
Finish with fresh herbs and Parmesan, serve and enjoy!
Pasta Alla Norma is more than just a pasta dish; it's a celebration of Sicilian flavors and culture. With its layers of textures and flavors, from the crispy eggplant to the rich tomato sauce, it's no wonder this dish has won hearts worldwide. Whether enjoyed in a quaint Sicilian trattoria or prepared at home, Pasta Alla Norma embodies the essence of Sicily, where the beauty of simplicity transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary delights. So, the next time you're craving a taste of the Mediterranean, why not whip up a plate of Pasta Alla Norma and savor the magic of Sicilian cuisine? For another great recipe that incorporates eggplant, try my baba ganoush.
