Perfect Carbonara: Classic, Simple, and Vegetarian Recipes
Carbonara is one of those classic pasta dishes that never goes out of style. With its creamy, savory sauce and hearty ingredients, it's a comfort food favorite. Whether you prefer the traditional Roman version, a simpler take, or a vegetarian option, we’ve got you covered. Read on for three fantastic Carbonara recipes that are sure to impress!
Classic Roman Carbonara
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 6 oz (170 g) pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Set aside.
3- Cook the Pancetta:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with pancetta and toss to combine. Remove from heat.
5- Finish the Dish:
- Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing quickly to coat without scrambling the eggs. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
6- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Simple Carbonara
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 4 oz (115 g) bacon or pancetta, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
3- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese.
4- Combine Ingredients:
- Toss the drained pasta in the skillet with the bacon. Allow the pasta to cool slightly, then mix in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
5- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Vegetarian Carbonara
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
- 1 cup (150 g) mushrooms, diced
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2- the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms until tender, then add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the peas and cook until heated through.
3- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese.
4- Combine Ingredients:
- Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the vegetables. Remove from heat, then mix in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring quickly to coat the pasta and create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed.
5- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
These Carbonara recipes are not only delicious but also adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these dishes will surely be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing these classic pasta dishes!