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Pasta Alla Norma

Pasta Alla Norma: Comforting Sicilian Flavor in Every Bite

Experience the comforting Pasta Alla Norma with roasted eggplant and vibrant marinara sauce, a delightful vegetarian dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Sicilian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 jar Marinara Sauce homemade or high-quality store-bought
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano or fresh oregano for more vibrant taste
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rigatoni/Ziti or Spaghetti choose according to preference
  • 1/4 teaspoon Fine Salt adjust according to taste
For the Eggplant
  • 2 medium Eggplants ~2 ¼ lbs total, firm and smooth-skinned
  • 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil plus 1 teaspoon for brushing
For the Finish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil keep some extra leaves for garnishing
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes for a spicy kick
  • 3/4 cup Ricotta Salata and/or Parmesan Cheese 1.5 oz, consider vegan cheese for dairy-free option

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Prepare Marinara Sauce: Simmer homemade sauce or heat store-bought sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
  2. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Prepare the Eggplant: Peel and slice eggplants into ½-inch rounds, brush with olive oil, season, and roast for 35-45 minutes.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Boil water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: Mix roasted eggplant with marinara, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes, then fold in pasta.
  6. Serve Your Dish: Dish out the pasta, top with remaining cheese, olive oil, and fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Pasta Alla Norma can easily cater to gluten-free and vegan diets with simple ingredient adjustments. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying family dinners.

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