Pasta alla Norma is a traditional Sicilian pasta dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and basil. It's a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. While eggplant is the star of the show in this dish, the cheese is also a key ingredient that can make or break the recipe. Here are my top 5 cheese choices for pasta alla Norma:
- Ricotta Salata: Ricotta salata is a salty and tangy cheese that is perfect for pasta alla Norma. It's a hard, aged version of ricotta cheese that adds a nice texture to the dish. I like to crumble it over the top of the pasta for a burst of flavor.
- Pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep's milk. It's a classic cheese used in Italian cuisine and it pairs perfectly with pasta alla Norma. Its strong flavor can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish.
- Caciocavallo: Caciocavallo is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors of the eggplant and tomatoes. It's a great melting cheese that can create a creamy texture.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano: Parmigiano-Reggiano is a hard, nutty cheese that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It's perfect for adding depth and complexity to the dish. I like to grate it over the top of the pasta for a crispy and cheesy crust.
- Provolone: Provolone is a semi-hard cheese that is similar to mozzarella. It has a mild, buttery flavor that can add a creamy texture to the dish. It's perfect for those who like a milder cheese flavor in their pasta alla Norma.
In conclusion, there are many different cheeses that can be used in pasta alla Norma. Whether you go with the classic Pecorino Romano or experiment with other cheeses, the most important thing is to use high-quality ingredients and let the cheese complement the flavors of the dish. So go ahead, get creative and add your own twist to this classic Sicilian dish. Your taste buds will thank you.
