Carbonara Pasta

Spaghetti Carbonara with Smoked Bacon - A Delicious and Quick Recipe

Who doesn't love a plate of spaghetti carbonara? This simple and quick recipe is perfect for when you want to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in culinary tradition, and today I will show you how to prepare a version with smoked bacon, which adds an extra layer of flavor.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

- 100g spaghetti
- 150g smoked bacon (diced)
- 50g grated parmesan
- 50ml cream
- 1 whole egg
- 1 yolk
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for frying)

A Brief History

Spaghetti carbonara is a classic Italian dish known for its simple yet incredibly tasty combination of pasta, eggs, cheese, and meat. Although the original recipe does not include cream, adding it in this version with smoked bacon provides a creamy texture and rich flavor that will delight everyone who tastes it.

Preparing the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Start by putting a pot of water with a pinch of salt to boil. It’s important to add salt to the water as it helps season the pasta.

2. Cook the Spaghetti: When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

3. Drain and Rinse: Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it in a colander and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Preparing the Sauce

4. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, add the whole egg, yolk, a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, grated parmesan, and cream. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.

Cooking the Bacon

5. Fry the Bacon: In a hot skillet, add a little olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the diced smoked bacon. Fry until crispy and golden, about 3-5 minutes. The delicious aromas of the fried meat will fill your kitchen!

Finishing the Dish

6. Add the Pasta: Once the bacon is fried, add the spaghetti to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the flavors. It’s important to work quickly so the pasta doesn’t cool down.

7. Incorporate the Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the egg and cream mixture. Stir quickly to prevent scrambling. The sauce will beautifully coat the pasta, giving it a creamy texture and incredible flavor.

Serving

Serve the spaghetti carbonara immediately, sprinkling a little grated parmesan and freshly ground pepper on top, to taste. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a slice of fresh bread.

Practical Tips

- Possible Substitutions: If you don’t have smoked bacon, you can use regular bacon or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Instead of parmesan, you can try pecorino romano for a stronger flavor.
- Adding Vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color to your plate.

Nutritional Benefits

- Calories: A serving of spaghetti carbonara contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
- Protein: Eggs and bacon provide a good source of protein, essential for a balanced diet.
- Calcium: Parmesan contributes to calcium intake, important for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option for added fiber.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the spaghetti in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a little water to avoid drying out.

3. What drinks pair best?
A glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this delicious dish.

Personal Note

Every time I prepare this recipe, I remember the moments spent around the table with family, where everyone contributed to the cooking. This simple and delicious dish brings together not only ingredients but also beautiful memories. So, enjoy every bite and the company of your loved ones!

I hope this recipe for spaghetti carbonara with smoked bacon inspires you to cook and create delicious moments! Enjoy your meal!