Pasta alla Norma is a perfect dish for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. This Sicilian dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it ideal for a special date night at home. The recipe includes rigatoni or penne pasta, eggplant, garlic, tomatoes, red pepper flakes, ricotta salata cheese, and basil. The step-by-step guide provides instructions on preparing the eggplant, cooking the pasta and sauce, and combining everything to serve. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, Pasta alla Norma is a delicious and satisfying dish to impress your loved one on Valentine’s Day for a special and memorable meal at home.

Pasta Alla Norma: The Ideal Dish For A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner

Introduction

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, and what better way to do so than with a delicious homemade meal? If you’re looking to impress your significant other with a romantic dinner, Pasta Alla Norma is the perfect choice. This classic Sicilian dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it an ideal option for a special date night at home. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide and recipe for creating the perfect Pasta Alla Norma for your Valentine’s Day celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 lb rigatoni or penne pasta
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 28-oz can of whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta salata cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Start by preparing the eggplant. Place the cubed eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Allow the eggplant to sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the eggplant is draining, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Pour in the can of whole peeled tomatoes and crush them with a spoon. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Eggplant

In another skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, about 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the eggplant is cooked, add it to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and eggplant.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the Pasta Alla Norma to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle the grated ricotta salata cheese over the top and garnish with torn basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Conclusion

Pasta Alla Norma is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your loved one on Valentine’s Day. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s the perfect choice for a romantic dinner at home. By following our step-by-step guide and recipe, you can create a memorable and special meal for the occasion. So, get ready to set the mood, light some candles, and enjoy a lovely evening with your significant other over a plate of delectable Pasta Alla Norma.