Penne Norma available only for the month of August at Spaghetti Eddie’s in Glendora! Roasted Eggplant, Tomato Sauce & Fresh Basil Tossed with Penne Pasta & Topped with Shredded Sicilian Cheese
Penna alla Norma is a classic Sicilian pasta dish that originated in Catania, on the eastern cost of the island. It is beloved for its simple yet colorful combination of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, ricotta salata and fresh basil, typically served with pasta such as macaroni or rigatoni.
The dish dates back to the early 19th century, a time when Sicilian cuisine was developing into the rich and distinctive tradition it is today. Its ingredients reflect the region’s agricultural abundance and cultural influences.
Over time, Pasta alla Norma became a symbol of Catania’s identity and a point of pride in Sicilian cuisine. It embodies the spirit of “cucina povera”, or peasant cooking, which uses local, seasonal ingredients to create deeply satisfying meals.
The dish has since spread far beyond Sicily, becoming a staple in Italian restaurants worldwide and a celebrated example of regional Italian cooking. It remains especially popular in summer, when tomatoes and eggplants are at their peak.