Italian Cuisine

Pasta Carbonara Recipe – Italian Special

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Pasta Carbonara Recipe – Italian Special

Pasta Carbonara is a traditional Italian dish that hails from Rome, celebrated for its simplicity and rich flavor. This classic recipe combines al dente pasta with a creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and crispy pancetta or guanciale, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Pasta Carbonara showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine—using just a few quality ingredients to create a memorable meal. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a generous amount of cheese for a truly authentic experience!

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Cook Time20 min
  • Total Time25 min

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or fettuccine
  • Salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan)
  • 4 oz (115 g) pancetta or guanciale, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to make Pasta Carbonara:

1

Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2

Prepare the Sauce:In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, and a generous amount of black pepper. Set aside.

3

Cook the Pancetta:In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. If using garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking.

4

Combine Pasta and Sauce:Add the hot, drained pasta to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to combine. Remove from heat. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

5

Serve:Divide the pasta among plates, garnishing with additional cheese, black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes:

Pasta Choice: Any pasta shape works well, but tube-shaped pasta holds the sauce nicely.

Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp.

Make-Ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before adding pasta

 

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