Authentic Pasta alla Norma 🍝 | Traditional Italian Recipe with Eggplant and Tomato Sauce

 Sicilian pasta dish combines tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a simple yet deeply flavorful meal. Made with fresh ingredients and timeless techniques, Pasta alla Norma is a true example of how Italian cooking turns simplicity into perfection.

This traditional Italian pasta recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a homemade meal that feels like it came straight from an Italian kitchen. With easy steps and accessible ingredients, it’s ideal for anyone who loves authentic flavors without complicated preparation. If you’re looking for a classic pasta dish with eggplant and tomato sauce, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

• 300 g pasta (penne or rigatoni)

• 2 large eggplants (sliced or cubed)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 400 g chopped tomatoes or natural tomato sauce

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• A pinch of sugar (to balance acidity)

• 1 tsp dried oregano or dried basil

• Grated ricotta salata cheese (or Parmesan as an alternative)

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

   • Cut the eggplant into slices or cubes, sprinkle with salt, and let it rest for 20 minutes to remove bitterness.

   • Rinse, pat dry, and either fry in olive oil until golden or roast in the oven for a healthier option.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.

   • Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, then simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

   • Stir in oregano or dried basil.

3. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil the pasta in salted water until "al dente," then drain while reserving 1 cup of the cooking water.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Add the fried or roasted eggplant to the sauce and mix well.

   • Toss in the pasta, adding a little cooking water if needed for consistency.

5. Serve:

   • Serve hot with grated ricotta salata on top, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

🔎 This dish is a traditional Italian classic known as Pasta alla Norma, perfect for Mediterranean flavor lovers.

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