Description
Spicy Corn Carbonara is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that combines sweet summer corn, crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a spicy kick from chili flakes. This Italian-inspired recipe offers a unique twist on traditional carbonara, perfect for a quick and satisfying summer dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Corn
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
Protein
- 4 oz (115 g) bacon, diced
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Other
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crisp and browned. This will render its fat and add flavor to the dish.
- Cook Corn and Spices: Add the corn kernels to the skillet with the bacon. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the corn is heated through and slightly caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their aromas.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt until smooth. This mixture will form the creamy carbonara sauce when combined with the hot pasta.
- Toss Pasta with Bacon and Corn: Add the hot cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet containing the bacon and corn. Toss everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Add Egg Mixture Off Heat: Remove the skillet from the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs. Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta while continuously tossing or stirring to coat the noodles evenly and create a creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing the pasta to loosen the sauce and achieve a silky, creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Fresh summer corn offers the best sweet flavor, but frozen corn is a convenient and tasty alternative.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice tolerance.
- For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken or shrimp as additional protein options.
- Use pancetta instead of bacon to give the recipe a more authentic Italian flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
