In today’s recipe, we will be exploring the delicious and traditional Italian dish known as Fusilli alla Norma. This flavorful pasta dish originated in Sicily and is named after the opera “Norma” by Vincenzo Bellini.

Ingredients

To prepare Fusilli alla Norma, you will need the following ingredients:.

400g fusilli pasta
2 eggplants
2 cloves of garlic
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated ricotta salata cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a perfect plate of Fusilli alla Norma:.

Begin by preparing the eggplants. Cut them into 1-inch cubes and place them in a colander. Sprinkle some salt over the cubes and let them sit for around 30 minutes. This will help remove excess moisture and bitterness from the eggplants.
In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
While the pasta is cooking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
After 30 minutes, rinse the eggplant cubes under cold water and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Spread the eggplant cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the eggplants evenly. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned.
In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and sauté them until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta and add the roasted eggplants. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and eggplants with the sauce.
Divide the Fusilli alla Norma into serving plates and sprinkle grated ricotta salata cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Variations

While the classic recipe for Fusilli alla Norma is truly delightful, you can also experiment with some variations to suit your taste:.

Add some sliced black olives for a salty and tangy twist.
Incorporate capers for an extra burst of flavor.
Try using different shapes of pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, if you don’t have fusilli on hand.
For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese.
Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms for a earthy and savory touch.

Enjoying Fusilli alla Norma

Fusilli alla Norma is best enjoyed fresh and piping hot. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside a grilled protein like chicken or fish.

Pair it with a glass of red wine, such as Nero d’Avola, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Sicilian pasta dish, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Fusilli alla Norma will transport you to the sun-kissed island of Sicily with every flavorful bite.