One 3-pound center-cut tenderloin roast brought to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Flake salt, to finish
Sauce:
4 small bunches of scallions or ramps, trimmed
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons plus 1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
2 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Directions
1. For the tenderloin: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Dry the tenderloin well with paper towels and sprinkle evenly with the salt and pepper. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil to the hot skillet followed by the tenderloin. Cook, turning every 4 minutes, until the tenderloin is an even, deep golden brown, about 12 minutes. Place the skillet in the oven until an instant-read thermometer reads 120 degrees F, or about 30 minutes for medium-rare. Remove to a platter to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. For the sauce: Meanwhile, preheat a grill for cooking at medium-high heat.
4. Sprinkle the scallions with 1 teaspoon salt and 2 teaspoons olive oil. Place on the hot grill and cook until wilted and slightly charred, about 3 minutes per side. (Place a pan lid on top of the scallions if they are not browning enough.) Remove the charred scallions to a cutting board and roughly chop. Add the charred scallions to a bowl along with the mustard, vinegar, remaining 1/3 cup olive oil and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine.
5. Sprinkle the tenderloin with flake salt and serve with the scallion sauce.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
1 butternut squash 1 cup chopped red onion 2 tablespoons olive oil? cup sweetened dried cranberries (such as Craisins)
3 ounces fresh spinach, stems removed and leaves torn in bite-size pieces? cup chopped pecans (Optional)
Directions
Step 1 Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
Step 2 Slice butternut squash cross-wise into 1-inch slices; peel and clean each slice, removing and discarding seeds and stringy pulp from the center. Cut cleaned slices into 1-inch cubes.
Step 3 Toss squash cubes, onion, and olive oil together in a bowl until coated; transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4 Roast in the preheated oven until squash is tender and starting to brown, 25 to 30 minutes.
Step 5 Toss squash mixture, spinach, dried cranberries, and pecans together in a serving bowl and serve warm.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Prepare and bake cake mix according to package directions for 24 cupcakes; cool cupcakes completely.
In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add apples and brown sugar; cook and stir until apples are tender, 10-12 minutes. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat; cool completely.
Using a paring knife, cut a 1-inch-wide cone-shaped piece from the top of each cupcake; discard the removed portion. Fill the cavity with apple mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the 5 frosting ingredients; beat until smooth. Frost the cupcakes. If desired, top with apple slices to serve.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta in boiling water until al dente. Drain.
Meanwhile, cook ground meat and onion in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until meat is browned. Stir in pasta sauce, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the ingredients in the prepared baking dish as follows: half of the cooked pasta, all the provolone cheese, all the sour cream, half of the sauce mixture, remaining pasta, mozzarella cheese, and remaining sauce mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Welcome to the final post in our Italian Recipe Series! After enjoying the flavors of Risotto alla Milanese, it’s time to indulge in another beloved Italian classic: Stuffed Shells. These pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients:
1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1 large egg
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
Bake the Stuffed Shells:
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Shells:
Cook the pasta shells al dente: This ensures they hold their shape when filled and baked.
Let the shells cool slightly: Handling them when they are cool enough to touch makes filling them easier.
Customize the filling: Add spinach, cooked ground meat, or herbs to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Stuffed Shells are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The creamy ricotta filling pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting meal that brings the flavors of Italy to your table.
Grazie e Buon Appetito!
We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring our Italian Recipe Series. From comforting classics like Stuffed Shells to elegant desserts like Tiramisu, these recipes bring the taste of Italy into your kitchen. Stay tuned for more culinary adventures and delicious recipes!
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After delighting in the rich flavors of Tiramisu, it’s time to explore another iconic Italian dish: Risotto alla Milanese. Known for its vibrant yellow color and creamy texture, this saffron-infused risotto is a true representation of Milanese culinary tradition. It’s perfect as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to meat or seafood.
Risotto alla Milanese Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, kept warm
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Saffron:
In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 1/4 cup of warm broth. Let it steep while you prepare the risotto.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Toast the Rice:
Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the butter and onion mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges of the rice become translucent.
Deglaze with Wine:
Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.
Cook the Risotto:
Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful.
After about 10 minutes, stir in the saffron-infused broth along with the saffron threads. Continue cooking and adding broth until the rice is creamy and tender but still al dente, about 18-20 minutes total.
Finish the Risotto:
Once the rice is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve:
Spoon the risotto onto warm plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Risotto:
Use Arborio rice: This short-grain rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of authentic risotto.
Stir frequently: Constant stirring helps release the starches from the rice, creating a creamy consistency.
Warm broth: Adding warm broth helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature, ensuring even cooking of the rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Risotto alla Milanese is a luxurious and comforting dish that’s sure to impress. The saffron gives it a unique flavor and a beautiful golden color, while the creamy texture makes it a delightful treat. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish, making any meal feel special.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Risotto alla Milanese. Stay tuned for the next delicious recipe in our Italian Recipe Series, where we continue to bring you the best of Italy’s culinary delights. Buon appetito!
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After savoring the rich flavors of Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan, and Lasagna, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic Italian dessert: Tiramisu. This elegant, coffee-flavored dessert is known for its creamy layers and delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect end to any meal.
Classic Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients:
6 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold
2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, and continue to whisk until smooth and well combined.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
Assemble the Tiramisu:
Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu:
Use high-quality mascarpone: This ensures a rich and creamy texture.
Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers: A quick dip in the coffee mixture is sufficient to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Chill thoroughly: Allowing the tiramisu to chill for several hours or overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. Its layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of cocoa create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Classic Tiramisu. Stay tuned for more delicious recipes as we continue our Italian Recipe Series, bringing you the best of Italy’s culinary delights. Buon appetito!
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! We’ve already enjoyed the creamy Spaghetti Carbonara and the comforting Chicken Parmesan. Now, it’s time to dive into one of Italy’s most iconic dishes: Lasagna. This hearty, layered pasta dish is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or a cozy night in. With rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails.
Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (28 oz each) of crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Béchamel Sauce:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
A pinch of nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
12 lasagna noodles
16 oz (450g) ricotta cheese
1 large egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large pot, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), sugar, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg until well combined. Set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce.
Sprinkle a portion of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers (meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, béchamel, and cheeses) until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna:
Make it ahead: Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add vibrant flavor to the meat sauce.
Rest before serving: Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to help the flavors meld together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Classic Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food. Its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a timeless dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After the delightful simplicity of Spaghetti Carbonara, we’re moving on to another classic that’s a favorite in many households: Chicken Parmesan. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Bake the Chicken:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts on top. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through about 20-25 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve hot with a side of spaghetti, a green salad, or garlic bread. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan:
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, along with a good-quality marinara sauce, make all the difference.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Finish in the oven: Baking the chicken ensures it’s cooked through and allows the cheese to melt beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Chicken Parmesan is the epitome of comfort food. The crispy, golden-brown chicken topped with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoyed this delicious addition to our Italian Recipe Series. Stay tuned for more mouthwatering recipes as we continue to explore the rich and varied world of Italian cuisine.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting Italian dish that’s easy to make, look no further than Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic recipe is a favorite for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simplicity. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
400g (14 oz) spaghetti
150g (5.3 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
2 large eggs
100g (3.5 oz) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, peeled
Freshly ground black pepper
Salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Pancetta:
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and cook until golden, then remove them.
Add the diced pancetta (or guanciale) to the skillet and cook until crispy. Remove from heat.
Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to coat in the rendered fat.
Remove the skillet from heat and pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Divide the pasta among plates, and garnish with extra cheese, more black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Authentic pancetta or guanciale and fresh Pecorino Romano cheese will elevate your dish.
Work quickly: When adding the egg mixture, make sure the pasta is hot but not on direct heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Pasta water is your friend: It helps create a silky sauce, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Spaghetti Carbonara is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough to enjoy any time of the year. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
