Quick Pasta alla Carbonara with Peas and Bacon

guanciale

🥗Healthier: pancetta

💰Cheaper: bacon

Pancetta is more widely available and bacon is often less expensive.

Pecorino Romano cheese

🥗Healthier: Parmesan cheese

💰Cheaper: Grana Padano

Parmesan offers a similar flavor profile at a lower price.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is more affordable and neutral in flavor.

spaghetti

🥗Healthier: whole wheat spaghetti

💰Cheaper: penne

Whole wheat adds fiber, while penne is often less costly.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.

Add linguine to the boiling water and cook until al dente.

Sauté smoked American bacon until rendered.

Defrost frozen peas.

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Add cooked linguine directly to the egg mixture and toss immediately.

Add the bacon and peas to the pasta and toss together.

Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing until a velvety sauce forms.

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional cheese and pepper before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens