Spaghetti with Pancetta and Peppers

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 6

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

Step 7

Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan if desired.