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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Jewel Julius
[email protected]This is a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe. I highly recommend it!
Tasha Robinson
[email protected]I've made this recipe several times now and it's always a hit. It's a great way to use up leftover eggplant.
Fahmo Fani
[email protected]This is a great recipe for a special occasion. It's elegant and delicious, and it's sure to impress your guests.
Datemere Stephanie
[email protected]I made this recipe for my Italian grandmother and she loved it! She said it reminded her of her childhood.
phylosophy kidd
[email protected]This is the best eggplant parmesan I've ever had. The sauce is so flavorful and the eggplant is cooked perfectly.
Regen Quinn
[email protected]I'm always looking for new and exciting pasta recipes, and this one definitely fits the bill. The flavors are incredible!
MD MOYAZZAM HOSSAIN PRODHAN PRODHAN
[email protected]This is a great recipe for a potluck or party. It's easy to make ahead of time and it always gets rave reviews.
Numan Bashir
[email protected]I'm not usually a fan of eggplant, but this recipe changed my mind. The eggplant is cooked to perfection and the sauce is amazing.
Seji Gabriel
[email protected]This is my new favorite pasta recipe! It's so easy to make and the results are delicious.
Mukesh k Yadav
[email protected]I love the combination of eggplant and tomatoes in this recipe. It's a classic Italian dish that is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ajmal Khattak
[email protected]This is a great recipe for vegetarians and vegans. It's packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ibrahim Ahmed Fokir
[email protected]I made this recipe for a dinner party and it was a huge hit! Everyone loved the unique flavor of the eggplant and tomato sauce.
Wadson Neston
[email protected]This pasta is so flavorful and comforting. It's the perfect dish for a cold winter night.
Max Phoswa
[email protected]I'm a huge fan of eggplant, and this recipe is a great way to showcase its flavor. The sauce is also very flavorful.
Shahzaib Ahamad
[email protected]I love how simple this recipe is. It's perfect for a busy weeknight when I don't have a lot of time to cook.
Baholo
[email protected]OMG! This is going to be my go-to pasta recipe from now on. My family keeps asking for seconds.
Muzammil Asif
[email protected]This is a great recipe for a weeknight meal. It's quick and easy to make, and the results are delicious.
Dianna Moss
[email protected]I followed the recipe exactly and it turned out great! The sauce is so flavorful and the eggplant is tender and delicious.
Zeeshan Hadir
[email protected]This pasta is amazing! The flavors are so rich and complex, and the eggplant is cooked to perfection. I will definitely be making this again!