Pasta Amatriciana is a classic Italian dish that hails from the region of Lazio, specifically the town of Amatrice. It’s a simple yet flavorful pasta that combines the richness of guanciale (cured pork cheek), the tang of tomatoes, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, all topped with a generous sprinkle of Pecorino Romano cheese. This dish is a perfect example of how just a few high-quality ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a taste of authentic Italian comfort food, Pasta Amatriciana is sure to become a favorite.
Pasta Amatriciana
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini
- 4 oz guanciale (or pancetta if unavailable), diced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or bucatini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the guanciale: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced guanciale and cook until it’s crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. If using onion, add it to the skillet once the guanciale is crisp and sauté until soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for a few seconds. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls and sprinkle generously with grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Enjoy the robust, savory flavors of Pasta Amatriciana, a dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your table!
