Classic Spaghetti Carbonara: A Taste of Italy
Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt (for pasta cooking water)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- Cook the Pancetta:While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Prepare the Sauce:In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. You want the mixture to be well combined and creamy.
- Combine Everything:Once the pasta is cooked, drain it (remembering to keep 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for the sauce) and return it to the pot while it's still hot. Immediately add the cooked pancetta and toss to combine. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta and quickly toss everything together. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:Divide the Carbonara among serving plates, making sure to distribute the pancetta evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
Serving: 4gCalories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 25gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 660mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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