Classic Spaghetti Carbonara: A Taste of Italian Comfort

Spaghetti Carbonara Taste of Italian

Spaghetti Carbonara Taste of Italian

Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish that's known for its rich, creamy sauce and crispy bacon. This classic recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it a go-to choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. Let's dive into the steps to create this comforting and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

8 ounces (225g) spaghetti

4 slices of bacon, diced

2 large eggs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

2 cloves garlic, minced

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salt, to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Spaghetti Carbonara Taste of Italian

Cook the spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.

Prepare the bacon and garlic:

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

In the same skillet, using the remaining bacon grease, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.

Make the carbonara sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. The mixture should be well combined and slightly thick.

Combine the ingredients:

Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic. Toss well to coat the pasta with the bacon grease.

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti, continuously tossing to coat the pasta evenly. The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.

Add the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss once more to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and garnish:

Divide the spaghetti carbonara among serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is creamy.

Enjoy the comforting and authentic flavors of this classic Spaghetti Carbonara dish. The creamy sauce, salty bacon, and al dente pasta combine to create a truly satisfying culinary experience. Pair it with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that will transport you to the heart of Italy. Buon appetito!