Ingredients

1/4 pound thinly sliced pancetta bacon , chopped
1 onion , chopped
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 can crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup white wine
1/2 pound uncooked spaghetti
salt and pepper to taste
Spaghetti Al Amatraciana is a classic Italian pasta dish. It is named after the Amatriciana town in central Italy. The pasta holds a special place among Italians as it is a symbol of their nation's cuisine. The dish has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century, where it was known as 'matriciana'. However, the addition of tomatoes made it what it is today. This dish has evolved over the years and is still a popular meal in Italian restaurants around the world. Spaghetti and tomato sauce form the basis of the dish but the added chili flakes and pancetta make it irresistible.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, bring salted water to boil and cook spaghetti until al dente.
2.In a skillet over medium heat, fry pancetta until crispy, then remove from pan and set aside.
3.In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent and add red pepper flakes to taste.
4.Add the can of crushed tomatoes and white wine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5.Drain the spaghetti and reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
6.Add the spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If you need more liquid, add some of the reserved pasta water.
7.Add the reserved pancetta and toss. Serve hot.

PROS

Spaghetti Al Amatraciana is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish.
The spicy kick from the red pepper flakes and the savory pancetta combination is irresistible.

CONS

This dish, like most pasta dishes, is high in carbs and excess consumption can contribute to weight gain.

Also, pancetta is high in fat and if consumed in excess it can contribute to heart disease.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish has some health benefits which include:
1. Tomatoes – a good source of antioxidant lycopene which can reduce inflammation.
2. Onion and garlic – they contain bioactive compounds that have been linked to beneficial effects on immunity, brain and heart health.
3. Red pepper flakes – contain capsaicin which has been associated with pain relief, metabolism boost and appetite reduction.

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