Rigatoni alla Norma is a classic Sicilian pasta dish that celebrates the flavors of roasted eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and salty ricotta salata. This dish is a perfect example of Italian comfort food, combining simple, fresh ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal. The tender rigatoni pasta holds onto the chunky tomato sauce, while the roasted eggplant adds a smoky sweetness. The ricotta salata sprinkled on top provides a salty, tangy finish that elevates the dish to perfection.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or any occasion when you want a satisfying vegetarian pasta meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it highlights the natural flavors of fresh ingredients without requiring complicated techniques. The combination of sweet, roasted eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and the salty, nutty ricotta salata is absolutely irresistible.

It is comforting, flavorful, and brings the taste of Sicily right into your kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it is a vegetarian pasta that doesn’t compromise on flavor or heartiness. The roasted eggplant adds depth, the tomato sauce provides richness, and the ricotta salata creates a satisfying salty contrast.

It’s a perfect introduction to authentic Sicilian cuisine and a dish that will impress anyone who tries it.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian / Sicilian

Ingredients

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 medium eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup ricotta salata, grated or crumbled
• Extra olive oil for drizzling

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Roast Eggplant
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced eggplant with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

Step 2: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

Step 3: Prepare Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, and sugar if using. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add roasted eggplant to the tomato sauce and stir gently. Toss in cooked rigatoni, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in chopped basil.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Transfer pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle generously with ricotta salata and drizzle with extra olive oil. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced eggplant with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion 3-4 minutes. Add garlic 1 minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Simmer 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir roasted eggplant into the sauce. Add cooked rigatoni and toss to coat, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
6. Stir in chopped basil. Serve with ricotta salata and a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve

Serve Rigatoni alla Norma hot with extra ricotta salata and fresh basil on top. Pair with a green salad, crusty bread, or a glass of Sicilian red wine for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use firm, fresh eggplant for best texture.
• Roast the eggplant until golden for a slightly smoky flavor.
• Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor.
• Reserve pasta water to help sauce adhere to rigatoni.

Variations

• Add sautéed zucchini or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Substitute pecorino Romano for ricotta salata for a sharper flavor.
• Use penne or rigatoni with ridges to better hold the sauce.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper roasted flavor.
• Include olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Best served fresh; freezing is not recommended as ricotta salata and roasted eggplant may change texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Baking sheet for roasting eggplant
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or tongs for mixing

FAQ

Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes, omit ricotta salata or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, use 4-5 ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed, and simmer longer to thicken the sauce.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare tomato sauce and roast eggplant ahead of time. Combine with pasta just before serving.

Q: Can I bake the entire pasta dish like lasagna?
A: Traditionally Rigatoni alla Norma is served tossed, but you can transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake briefly to melt.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well with the dish without overpowering the flavors.

Conclusion

Rigatoni alla Norma with Eggplant & Ricotta Salata is a classic Sicilian pasta dish that balances roasted vegetables, tangy tomato sauce, and salty cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal. Its simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both elegant and satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or introducing family and friends to authentic Italian flavors.