Pasta alla Gricia

guanciale

🥗Healthier: pancetta

💰Cheaper: bacon

Pancetta and bacon are more accessible alternatives that still provide a rich flavor.

Pecorino Romano cheese

🥗Healthier: Parmesan cheese

💰Cheaper: Grana Padano

Parmesan and Grana Padano are milder and more widely available.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt until it tastes like the sea.

Cook the pasta in boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions.

While the pasta cooks, slice the guanciale into small pieces.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add the guanciale to the skillet and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with guanciale.

Toss the pasta with the guanciale, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.

Grate Pecorino Romano cheese over the pasta and mix well until combined.

Season with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Serve immediately with extra cheese on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens