Taste the flavors of Sicily in this traditional Sicilian dish. Eggplant gives a meaty-like texture to this vegetarian dinner. The recipe originated in Catania on the Eastern coast of Sicily and is named after the opera “Norma,” which was composed by Sicilian Vincenzo Bellini.

The Parmesan cheese for the garnish is shredded instead of grated. To shred the cheese, use a grater that has large holes. Or you can use grated Parmesan cheese.

Helpful Hints:

- Any type of short cut pasta can be used such as penne or ziti.

- Any type of pasta sauce can be used.

Countdown

- Prepare ingredients.

- Place water for pasta on to boil.

- Start eggplant saute.

- Boil pasta.

- Complete eggplant sauce.

Shopping List

To buy: 1 pound eggplant, 1 bottle minced garlic, 1 bottle red pepper flakes, 1 jar marinara sauce, 1 package rigatoni, 1 small carton ricotta cheese, 1 small piece Parmesan cheese and 1 bunch basil.

Staples: olive oil, salt and black peppercorns.