Spaghetti Carbonara I

Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe | Authentic Italian Pasta Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that is loved for its creamy and savory flavors. This recipe is a favorite among many for its simplicity and delicious taste.

History

Spaghetti Carbonara is believed to have originated in Rome, Italy. It is said to have been created as a hearty meal for Italian charcoal workers. The dish has evolved over the years and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

16 oz (454 g) of Dreamfields spaghetti (one box)
1 tbsp of olive oil
1 clove of minced garlic
8 oz (227 g) of sliced bacon, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 eggs
0.25 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
0.25 cup of freshly grated romano cheese
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
0.25 tsp of black pepper

How to prepare

Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) dutch oven or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Cook the garlic and bacon for 5 minutes or until the bacon is crisp; drain off the fat.
Mix together the eggs, Parmesan and Romano cheeses, parsley, and pepper; set aside.
Drain the spaghetti; immediately return it to the saucepan over low heat.
Add the egg mixture; quickly toss it with the spaghetti.
Add the bacon mixture; toss it.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper if desired.

Variations

Add peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use pancetta instead of bacon for a more authentic taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a nice crunch to the dish.

- Make sure to toss the pasta quickly with the egg mixture to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spaghetti Carbonara with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to toss the pasta quickly with the egg mixture to create a creamy sauce.

- Cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a nice crunch to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pancetta instead of bacon for a more traditional flavor.

- Use spaghetti squash or zoodles for a low-carb option.

Make Ahead Tips

Cook the bacon and prepare the egg mixture ahead of time for a quicker meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 420 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 22g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 200mg per serving

Iron: 2mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Eggs, Dairy

Summary

Spaghetti Carbonara is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fat and protein. It is a great source of energy and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Spaghetti Carbonara is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy sauce and crispy bacon, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spaghetti Carbonara. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. I had always been fascinated by cooking, watching my mother and grandmother in the kitchen and learning from them as much as I could. But this recipe was unlike anything I had ever seen before.

I was at a neighbor's house for a dinner party when I first tasted Spaghetti Carbonara. The rich, creamy sauce with bits of crispy pancetta and Parmesan cheese was a revelation to me. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

The woman who had made the dish for the dinner party was kind enough to share her recipe with me. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn such a traditional and delicious recipe.

I went home that night with the recipe scribbled on a scrap of paper, determined to recreate the dish for my family. I spent hours in the kitchen, carefully following each step and ingredient, making sure to get everything just right. And when I finally sat down to eat the finished dish with my family, I knew that I had discovered something truly special.

From that day on, Spaghetti Carbonara became a staple in our household. I made it for every special occasion, and sometimes just for a simple weeknight dinner. My family loved it just as much as I did, and I was always happy to see their smiles and hear their compliments whenever I served it.

As the years went by, I continued to make Spaghetti Carbonara, perfecting the recipe and making it my own. I added a touch of garlic here, a sprinkle of fresh parsley there, always experimenting and tweaking to make it just right. And with each batch I made, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of women who had come before me, passing down this recipe from mother to daughter.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, always happy to pass on the tradition and joy of Spaghetti Carbonara. And each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride in knowing that I had learned this wonderful recipe and made it my own.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of garlic and pancetta wafting through the air, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful dinner party so many years ago. It was there that I first discovered Spaghetti Carbonara, and it has been a beloved part of my life ever since.

And as I take a bite of the pasta, savoring the rich flavors and creamy sauce, I am reminded once again of the magic of cooking and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love. This recipe for Spaghetti Carbonara will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the traditions and memories that have shaped me into the cook I am today.