Penne alla Norma is a classic Italian dish that originated from Sicily. It is named after an opera, Norma, by Vincenzo Bellini. The dish is made with penne pasta and tossed in a tomato-based sauce with fried eggplant, fresh basil, and ricotta salata.

This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The following is a simple recipe for Penne alla Norma that you can easily make at home.

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Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 large eggplant, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup ricotta salata cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the penne pasta until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once heated, add the diced eggplant and fry until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the fried eggplant to the tomato sauce and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
6. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the skillet with the eggplant and tomato sauce. Toss the pasta until it is coated evenly with the sauce.
7. Add chopped basil and ricotta salata to the skillet and toss everything together again.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Finally, serve Penne alla Norma hot, garnished with additional basil and ricotta salata, if desired.

Buon Appetito!

Penne alla Norma is a delicious and hearty pasta dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this classic Italian dish in no time.

So go ahead and try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors and aromas.