Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale Recipe

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Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale Recipe
Total
30 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Heat bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until most of the fat is melted and the bacon begins to crisp (about 5 minutes).

  2. Add the shallot to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant and slightly softened.

  3. Stir in the kale and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it wilts down and becomes slightly crispy.

  4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer it to a bowl and set aside.

  5. In the same skillet, pour in the broth and pasta. Adjust the heat to maintain a vigorous boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

  6. While the pasta is nearly cooked, add the raw eggs, cheese, and black pepper to the bowl with the kale and bacon mixture.

  7. Once the pasta is done, remove it from the heat and add the kale mixture to the skillet. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

  8. Season the dish generously with black pepper and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with more cheese and black pepper on the side.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and comforting pasta dish that's easy to make? Look no further than this Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale recipe. This classic Italian dish is given a modern twist with the addition of kale, which adds a pop of color and a healthy dose of nutrients. Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe and explore how to make it step by step.

The Creamy Delight of Carbonara

Carbonara is a beloved pasta dish that originated in Rome. It's known for its rich and creamy sauce, made with eggs, cheese, and pancetta. The combination of these ingredients creates a velvety texture that coats the pasta perfectly. It's an indulgent dish that's sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Adding a Touch of Green with Kale

While traditional Carbonara doesn't include any vegetables, we're taking it up a notch by incorporating kale into the recipe. Kale is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals. By adding kale to the dish, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting its nutritional value.

The Perfect Pairing: Kale and Pancetta

Kale and pancetta make a dynamic duo in this recipe. The crispy pancetta adds a salty and savory flavor, while the kale brings a fresh and earthy taste to the dish. The combination of these two ingredients creates a balance that will leave you craving more.

How to Make Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale

Now that we've explored the concept behind this delicious recipe, let's dive into the process of making it. Follow these simple steps to create a Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale that will impress your family and friends:

Step 1Cook the Pancetta and Kale

Begin by cooking the pancetta in a skillet until it turns crispy and golden brown. Once the pancetta is ready, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté the kale until it wilts and becomes tender. The combination of the pancetta and kale will create a delightful aroma in your kitchen.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated cheese, and black pepper. This mixture will form the creamy sauce that will coat the spaghetti. Make sure to whisk it well to ensure a smooth and velvety consistency.

Step 3Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches the desired tenderness. Remember to save some of the pasta water before draining it. The starchy pasta water will help create a silky sauce when combined with the egg and cheese mixture.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and transfer it to the skillet with the pancetta and kale. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta and toss everything together until the sauce coats the spaghetti evenly. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs gently, creating a luscious and creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish your Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale with extra grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper. The dish is best enjoyed immediately while it's still warm and creamy. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. The combination of creamy carbonara sauce, crispy pancetta, and nutritious kale creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Give this recipe a try and indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal that's easy to make.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

Yes, you can substitute pancetta with bacon if you don't have pancetta available. Just make sure to use thick-cut bacon to achieve a similar flavor.

. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can omit the pancetta and make a vegetarian version of this dish. The kale and creamy sauce will still create a delicious meal.

. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is the traditional choice for Carbonara, you can experiment with different pasta shapes. Try using fettuccine or linguine for a slight variation in texture.

. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to the skillet. Mushrooms, peas, or zucchini would make excellent additions to this recipe.

. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or cream. Heat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through.

. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Traditionally, Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese is used in Carbonara. However, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Grana Padano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.

. How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time to make Skillet Spaghetti alla Carbonara with Kale is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.

. Can I freeze the leftovers?

It's not recommended to freeze Carbonara due to the egg-based sauce. The texture may change when thawed and reheated.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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