PASTA A LA NORMA (EGGPLANT & TOMATO SAUCE)
I've read lots of things about where this dish got it's name, but there doesn't seem to be a definitive answer. Some theories are that it simply means 'normal', and some that it was named after a heroine in an opera. I like to think there was a little Sicilian lady named Norma who dreamed this up. The traditional version uses ricotta, and there are lots of versions with parmesan or pecorino. You can of course top with whatever you like, or enjoy as-is which is simple, fresh and delicious. There are so many versions of how to make this dish, Rachel Ray has a version where the eggplant, tomatoes & garlic are roasted first, some pan fry the eggplant first. This is a method I find a little less time consuming and do-able for a weeknight meal. You could also use tinned tomatoes if need be, probably 2 of the large 28oz tins.
Provided by magpie diner
Categories European
Time 1h5m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Using a heavy bottomed pot or large sautee pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the onions and salt, let them cook over medium low heat until nicely browned. Stir often to prevent burning.
- Cut the eggplants into about 1/2 inch slices. Place them in a colander, sprinkling each piece with salt. Put a plate on top and some kind of weight to press the plate down (a tin of beans works well). Leave that to sit for about 15 minutes.
- While you wait, cut up your tomatoes.
- Back to the onions, add in the garlic now and let that cook for a few minutes. Then add in the diced tomatoes and salt.
- Pat your eggplant slices dry, dice them up and add to the sauce. Leave the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes,
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta al dente. Drain, then add into the sauce along with some fresh chopped basil. Mix well but gently and serve with some fresh basil sprinkled on top.
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Caydaruus ibraahim
[email protected]This dish is a great way to use up leftover eggplant and tomatoes.
Shoukat Ali
[email protected]I followed the recipe exactly and the dish turned out great! I will definitely be making this again.
Kiganda Peter
[email protected]This recipe is a bit too bland for my taste. I would add some more garlic and chili flakes next time.
Hana Adel
[email protected]I'm not a huge fan of eggplant, but I really enjoyed this dish. The eggplant was cooked perfectly and the sauce was delicious.
Zoya Rahman
[email protected]This dish is a great option for a weeknight meal. It's quick and easy to make, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.
Nzwaki Makwe
[email protected]I love that this recipe is customizable. You can add or omit ingredients to suit your own taste.
Waheed Khattak
[email protected]This dish is a great way to sneak some vegetables into your kids' diet.
Khokon Miah
[email protected]I'm always looking for new recipes to add to my repertoire, and this one is definitely a keeper.
Romon Brown
[email protected]I made this dish for a dinner party and it was a hit! Everyone loved it.
Sumon Maruf
[email protected]This recipe is a bit time-consuming, but it's worth it. The end result is a delicious and impressive dish.
Vilma Rowe
[email protected]I'm not usually a fan of eggplant, but this dish changed my mind. It's delicious!
Kathy Ivy
[email protected]I love the combination of eggplant and tomatoes in this dish. It's a perfect summer meal.
Arthur Jackson
[email protected]This dish is so flavorful and satisfying. I highly recommend it.
Arif Kin
[email protected]I'm always looking for new vegetarian pasta dishes, and this one is a keeper.
Fungai Nyavanhu
[email protected]This recipe is a great way to use up leftover eggplant.
Alimola705 Hassan
[email protected]I made this dish for my family last night and they loved it! Even my picky kids ate it all up.
Yadav Bhujel
[email protected]I was a bit skeptical about the eggplant, but I'm so glad I tried this recipe. It's now one of my favorites.
4011 Banana
[email protected]The sauce in this recipe is incredible. I could eat it by itself!
Akhanolu Victory
[email protected]This is one of my favorite pasta dishes! It's so simple to make, but it's always a crowd-pleaser.
Damith Dananjaya
[email protected]I'm not a huge fan of eggplant, but this dish was amazing! The sauce was rich and flavorful, and the eggplant was cooked perfectly. I will definitely be making this again.