All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon and Basil

All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon and Basil Recipe - Authentic Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil is a classic Italian dish that brings the rich flavors of the countryside to your table. This recipe combines the smoky taste of bacon, the tanginess of tomato purée, and the freshness of basil to create a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

History

The origins of All'Amatriciana trace back to the small town of Amatrice in Italy. Originally made with guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese, and tomatoes, this dish has evolved over the years. The version with bacon and basil presented here offers a twist on the traditional recipe, making it more accessible while still preserving the essence of this beloved Italian classic.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
6 slices thick cut smoked bacon, cut into 0.25 inch strips
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
15 oz (425 g) can tomato purée
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
0.25 tsp salt
1 lb (454 g) bucatini pasta
0.5 cup grated romano cheese
0.25 cup basil leaves, coarsely chopped
black pepper

How to prepare

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Heat oil in a skillet.
Add bacon and cook until it begins to turn brown.
Remove bacon and set aside.
Add onion to the skillet and cook for 7 minutes in the bacon drippings.
Stir in the reserved bacon, tomato puree, vinegar, pepper flakes, and salt.
Simmer for 3 minutes.
Prepare pasta according to the package directions.
Drain the pasta.
Toss the pasta with the sauce.
Stir in 0.25 cup of cheese and the basil.
Serve with extra cheese on the side and black pepper to taste.
Also, serve with garlic bread.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. Vegetarians can replace bacon with mushrooms or eggplant for a similar texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors in this dish, use thick-cut smoked bacon for a deep, smoky taste. Simmering the sauce just long enough to meld the flavors without overcooking the tomatoes is key. Fresh basil added at the end of cooking preserves its vibrant color and aroma, elevating the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated cheese. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad complement the flavors perfectly.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect texture for the pasta is crucial; it should be al dente, or firm to the bite. Sautéing the bacon and onions properly will ensure they are flavorful and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If smoked bacon is not available, pancetta or even regular bacon can be used. Fresh tomatoes can replace tomato purée for a chunkier sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to two days, enhancing its flavors. Simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a deep, warm bowl with a garnish of basil leaves. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Montepulciano, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lemon complements the meal's richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this All'Amatriciana contains approximately 600 calories, making it a hearty meal option. The calories are well balanced between carbs, proteins, and fats, providing sustained energy.

Carbohydrates

A serving of All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil contains approximately 75 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the pasta, making this dish a good source of energy.

Fats

This dish contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the bacon and olive oil. Using high-quality olive oil not only contributes healthy monounsaturated fats but also adds a layer of flavor.

Proteins

Each serving provides roughly 25 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The protein in this dish comes from both the bacon and the cheese, offering a good mix of animal-based proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the tomato purée, calcium from the cheese, and iron from the bacon. Basil adds a small but significant amount of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (pasta). Those with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty, flavorful meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients to create a meal rich in flavor and tradition. With its balanced nutrition profile and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil. It was handed down to me by my dear friend Maria, who learned it from her grandmother in Italy. The combination of savory bacon, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant basil was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I had always considered myself a decent cook, but this recipe opened up a whole new world of flavors and techniques for me. The ingredients were simple and humble, but when combined in just the right way, they created a dish that was truly unforgettable.

I remember the first time I made All'Amatriciana for my family. The aroma of sizzling bacon filled the kitchen, and my children's mouths watered in anticipation. As the tomatoes simmered and the basil released its fragrance, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or a splash of red wine for depth of flavor. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the dish remains the same - a comforting and delicious meal that never fails to bring joy to those who taste it.

I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of All'Amatriciana from one generation to the next. It brings me great joy to see others enjoy the fruits of my labor, and to know that this recipe will continue to be cherished and shared for years to come.

As I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by the aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and basil, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful recipes and culinary wisdom that have been passed down to me over the years. Each dish tells a story, and each recipe carries with it the love and care of those who have cooked it before me.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some traditions remain timeless. The recipe for All'Amatriciana with Pasta, Bacon, and Basil is one such tradition, a taste of Italy that has found a home in my kitchen and in the hearts of my loved ones.

As I take a bite of the piping hot pasta, coated in a rich tomato sauce and sprinkled with crispy bacon and fragrant basil, I am transported back to that first moment of wonder and discovery. And I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and the enduring legacy of family recipes.