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Spaghetti with Pancetta and Peppers

A quick and flavorful weeknight pasta with crispy pancetta, sweet red peppers, and a hint of parsley. Simple ingredients come together for a satisfying dinner.

Total time
30 min
Servings
4
Calories
550
Protein
20g
Spaghetti with Pancetta and Peppers
ComfortingQuickItalianPorkCrispyTenderWeeknightPasta

Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 4 oz pancetta
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup parsley
  • ½ cup grated parmesan
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

  2. 2

    While the pasta cooks, dice the 4 oz pancetta and slice the 1 red bell pepper into thin strips. Mince the 2 garlic cloves.

  3. 3

    Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 6 minutes, then add the bell pepper and garlic. Cook until the pepper is soft, about 4 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta and peppers. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

  5. 5

    Remove from heat and stir in the 0.25 cup chopped parsley and 0.5 cup grated parmesan. Season with the 1 tsp salt (or to taste) and serve immediately.

  6. 6

    For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or black pepper with the garlic if you like.

  7. 7

    Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan if desired.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

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