Pasta in the Norma Style is a delicious and satisfying dish that celebrates the flavors of Italy. This recipe features tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and savory eggplant, all brought together with aromatic garlic and fresh basil. It’s a comforting meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Pasta in the Norma Style is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it uses fresh and wholesome ingredients, which means you can enjoy a healthy and hearty meal. Lastly, this dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for anyone looking to eat less meat without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Pasta in the Norma Style
Ingredients:
- Pasta (e.g., rigatoni or spaghetti)
- Eggplant
- Tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Basil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Grated ricotta salata cheese
Directions:
- Start by cutting the eggplant into cubes and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook until golden and soft. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain.
- Toss the pasta with the tomato sauce, eggplant, and fresh basil. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Serve topped with grated ricotta salata cheese.
How to Serve Pasta in the Norma Style
Serve your Pasta in the Norma Style warm on a beautiful plate. You can add a sprinkle of extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil for presentation. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal.
How to Store Pasta in the Norma Style
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat in a pan over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Pasta in the Norma Style
- Choose a good quality olive oil for better flavor.
- Make sure to cut the eggplant into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste. If you love garlic, feel free to add more.
- Don’t skip the step of salting the eggplant; it helps enhance its flavor and texture.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the dish for extra color and nutrients. If you want a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or lentils to the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! You can skip the ricotta salata cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Enjoy making and savoring Pasta in the Norma Style! This delightful dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
