How to Make Easy Pasta alla Norma - A Step-by-Step Guide

Easy Pasta alla Norma is a classic Italian dish that originated in the Sicilian city of Catania. It is a simple and delicious pasta recipe that showcases the flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, and basil. This dish is named after the famous opera "Norma" by the composer Vincenzo Bellini, and it is a staple in Sicilian cuisine.

The beauty of Pasta alla Norma lies in its simplicity. The dish is made with just a few key ingredients, but when combined, they create a flavorful and satisfying me...

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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 small eggplant, sliced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
  • 2 sprigs fresh basil, plus more for garnish
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt, or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 (16 ounce) package spaghetti
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes, or to taste
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until smoking. Add garlic and then eggplant and cook stirring regularly, until softened and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add tomatoes, basil, and thyme. Bring everything to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste.
  • Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons salt. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain well and pour hot pasta into the skillet with eggplant mixture. Toss to combine.
  • Garnish with basil leaves and red pepper flakes. Drizzle some olive oil on top and serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
  • Nutrition

    658 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 4mg
    • Sodium: 1030mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 108g
    • Dietary Fiber: 15g
    • Total Sugars: 14g
    • Protein: 21g
    • Vitamin C: 26mg
    • Calcium: 176mg
    • Iron: 15mg
    • Potassium: 1248mg