Pasta alla Norma

Pasta alla Norma is a vibrant and hearty vegetarian pasta dish that highlights the flavors of roasted eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and creamy ricotta. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion, combining rich Mediterranean tastes with a wholesome twist.

Pasta alla Norma
30 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
American
520 kcal

Ingredients

  • Pasta (rigatoni or penne) - 200 grams
  • Eggplant - 1 medium (about 250 grams)
  • Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Cherry tomatoes - 200 grams, halved
  • Fresh basil - 10 leaves, torn
  • Salt - to taste
  • Black pepper - to taste
  • Ricotta cheese - 100 grams
  • Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the eggplant into 1-inch cubes, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. Toss the eggplant with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and spread it on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and tender.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
  5. Add the roasted eggplant to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, adding more pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the torn basil leaves.
  7. Serve the pasta topped with dollops of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Carbs: 70 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • Contains antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, supporting overall health.

Tags

AmericanVegetarianPasta Dish