Pasta Amatriciana

Pasta Amatriciana: A Classic Italian Delight

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Introduction

Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of Pasta Amatriciana, a traditional Italian dish that hails from the town of Amatrice. This recipe combines al dente pasta with a savory tomato sauce infused with crispy turkey bacon, aromatic onions, and a touch of spice. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion, Pasta Amatriciana brings a taste of Italy to your table with its simple yet bold ingredients.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 12 ounces (340g) pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or penne)
  • 6 ounces (170g) turkey bacon, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Slice the Turkey Bacon: Cut the turkey bacon into thin strips.
  2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. Grate the Cheese: Grate the Pecorino Romano cheese and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  4. Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta and set aside.
Pasta Amatriciana

3️⃣ Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
  2. Cook Turkey Bacon: Add the sliced turkey bacon to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown.
Pasta Amatriciana
  1. Add Onion: Stir in the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Season: Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

4️⃣ Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add Pasta to Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
  2. Toss Together: Gently toss the pasta with the sauce over low heat, ensuring each strand is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the pasta and toss to combine.
Pasta Amatriciana

5️⃣ Serve

  1. Plate the Dish: Divide the Pasta Amatriciana among serving plates or bowls.
  2. Garnish: Top each serving with the remaining grated cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
  3. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the pasta hot for the best flavor and texture.
Pasta Amatriciana

Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta Amatriciana

  • Pasta Choice: Traditional Pasta Amatriciana is often made with bucatini, but spaghetti or penne work well too.
  • Adjusting Spice Level: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
  • Cheese Selection: Pecorino Romano adds a sharp, salty flavor, but Parmesan cheese can be used as an alternative.
  • Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after cooking the turkey bacon, allowing it to reduce before adding the tomatoes.
  • Consistency: Using the reserved pasta water helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta due to its starch content.
  • Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley enhances the dish’s aroma and adds a touch of freshness.

Conclusion

Pasta Amatriciana is a delightful Italian dish that combines the simplicity of pasta with a rich, flavorful sauce. The combination of turkey bacon, tomatoes, and a hint of spice creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe offers a wonderful way to bring a taste of Italy into your home, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this classic Italian favorite. Buon appetito!

Feel free to customize this recipe by using whole-grain pasta for added fiber or incorporating your favorite vegetables to make it even more wholesome. Enjoy your cooking!

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