| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 519 | 29g | 11g | 46g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 24g | 1.2g |
I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food, the type that warms you up inside after a long day out in the Montana wilderness. It’s no surprise then that this Pea and Bacon Carbonara recipe holds a special place in my heart. Yes, carbonara is indeed a rustic, traditional Italian dish that typically uses guanciale (pork jowl), eggs, hard cheese, and pepper. Yet, it also leaves ample room for improvisation and personalization, which is where my affection for it truly lies.
A Love for Flavors
The beauty of this Pea and Bacon Carbonara is in its contrasting flavors. The salty, smoky appeal of bacon pairs remarkably well with the sweet pop of peas. This dynamic blend of flavors, combined with the creamy texture from eggs and cheeses, makes every bite of this dish a sheer delight. It reminds me of the balance and harmony found in Montana’s landscapes, making me cherish this recipe even more.
The Health Factor
Beyond the flavor, this dish also packs a healthy punch. Peas, the star ingredient here, are an excellent source of fiber and protein, and they’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K. In fact, they pack other essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and folate—making them a wonderful addition to any meal. Bacon, in moderation, offers protein and important minerals, providing a depth of flavor that few other ingredients can match. The melding of health and taste in this recipe is one of the reasons why I adore it.
Pea and Bacon Carbonara is robust and hearty enough as a standalone dish, but if you’re interested in creating a larger meal, it pairs exceptionally well with classic Italian green salads and a delightful glass of Italian chardonnay.
So whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this Pea and Bacon Carbonara recipe is one you’ll come back to time and again. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a hearty summer lunch—the adventure of flavors in this dish is simply too good to pass up.
What You’ll Need
- 12 ounces of spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 8 ounces of bacon, diced
- 1 cup of peas, frozen or fresh
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Bring a large saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
Step Two
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until browned and crispy, stirring frequently, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Step Three
Add the peas to the skillet with bacon drippings and cook until heated through, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside with the bacon.
Step Four
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, black pepper, and salt. Set aside.
Step Five
After the pasta has been drained, quickly add it to the bowl with the egg and cheese mixture, along with some of the reserved pasta water. Toss quickly to combine, the heat of the pasta will cook the eggs slightly and create a creamy sauce. Adjust the consistency with more pasta water if needed.
Step Six
Next, add the cooked bacon and peas to the pasta and stir to combine. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Your Pea and Bacon Carbonara is now ready to be enjoyed!
