Bucatini with Pancetta and Pecorino
By Chef John Ash
This dish exemplifies just how a few good ingredients can make a superb dish. All kinds of variations are possible with this recipe, including the addition of finely chopped ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced and sautéed onions, or tender spinach leaves. Enjoy with a glass of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.
Serves 4
Total Time 30 minutes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Difficulty Level Easy
Ingredients
1 lb dried bucatini or thick spaghetti
6 oz good quality thick sliced pancetta or bacon cut into matchsticks
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
1 c freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
Bring 3 quarts of lightly salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the bucatini and cook till just tender but firm to the bite (al dente).
While the pasta is cooking add the olive oil to a large sauté pan large enough to hold the pasta later on. Over moderately high heat sauté the pancetta till browned and nearly crisp. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the fat.
Quickly drain the pasta reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water and add to the sauté pan. Using tongs, toss with the bacon. Add the parsley, zest and cheese and toss again adding the reserved pasta water.
Cover and let rest for one minute on very low heat to allow pasta to absorb the flavors. Serve immediately in warm bowls with grindings of black pepper to taste.
