Ingredients

2 cups ham , cubed
1 medium onion , chopped
1 lb linguine
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon fennel , crushed
2 teaspoons garlic
1 pint half-and-half
1 cup parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1/4 cup fresh parsley , chopped
Pancetta Spiced Ham Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that is loved for its rich and creamy sauce and comforting flavors. The addition of pancetta and spices gives it a unique twist and depth of flavor. The dish is perfect for a cozy night in, and is best enjoyed with a glass of red wine and some crusty bread. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Instructions

1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine to al dente according to package instructions, and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ham and onion, and cook until the onion is translucent and the ham is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the nutmeg, red pepper flakes, fennel, and garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3.In a medium bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, parmesan cheese, and eggs until smooth.
4.Add the reserved pasta cooking water to the ham mixture, and bring it to a simmer. Add the cooked linguine, and toss to coat with the sauce. Remove the pan from heat and add the egg mixture to the pan, stirring constantly until the sauce has thickened.
5.Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

PROS

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, and is a great way to use up leftover ham.
The rich and creamy sauce is filling and satisfying, and the red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
The dish can be made in large batches and reheated later, making it perfect for meal prep.

CONS

The heavy cream and parmesan cheese make this dish high in calories and fat.
The red pepper flakes may be too spicy for some palates, so adjust the amount according to your taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this recipe is not particularly healthy, the use of olive oil instead of butter or cream is a healthier option. The dish is a good source of protein from the ham and parmesan cheese, and the linguine provides carbohydrates for sustained energy.

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