Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Italy with our Pasta and Pancetta in Smoky Tomato Sauce! This dish is a delightful symphony of crispy pancetta, aromatic garlic, and rich crushed tomatoes, all enveloped in a smoky embrace of paprika. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italian cuisine. Ready in just 30 minutes, you'll be savoring every bite before you know it. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover the secret to creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like sea water to properly season the pasta.
- While the water heats, dice the pancetta into small, uniform cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy and releases its rich, golden fat, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the pancetta, sautéing until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the pancetta and onions. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Season the tomato sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves. Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously; it should taste like the sea. This is crucial for infusing flavor into the pasta.
- Crispy Pancetta: For the best texture, cook the pancetta until it's nice and crispy. This will add a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor to your dish.
- Onion and Garlic Timing: Keep an eye on the onions as they sauté. You want them translucent and slightly golden, which enhances their sweetness and overall flavor.
- Smoky Flavor Boost: If you love a deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked sea salt or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
- Fresh Basil Finish: Always garnish with fresh basil right before serving. The aromatic oils in the basil will elevate the dish and add a pop of color.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your pasta with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 64g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
