Pasta alla Norma

Ingredients (9)

• 1 batch Super Simple Marinara Sauce, or 2 cups (16 ounces) store-bought marinara
• 2 medium eggplants (about 2 1/4 pounds total) 
• ¼ cup + 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon fine salt, more to taste
• 8 ounces rigatoni, ziti or spaghetti
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil, plus a handful more small basil leaves or torn leaves for garnish 
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¾ cup (1.5 ounces) finely grated ricotta salata and/or Parmesan cheese