Pasta Carbonara



6 slices good-quality bacon (5 ounces)
1 pound farfalline (small bow-tie pasta)
1 (10-ounce) package frozen peas (not thawed; 2 cups)
4 large eggs (preferably organic)
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano plus additional for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1. Cut bacon crosswise into 1/4-inch-wide strips and cook in a large heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp. Remove from heat.
2. Cook farfalline in a pasta pot of boiling salted water (2 tablespoons salt for 6 quarts water) according to package directions, stirring in peas 4 minutes before pasta is al dente.
3. Meanwhile, whisk together eggs, cheese, kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Reserve 1 cup pasta-cooking water, then drain. Add pasta to eggs along with 1/2 cup reserved cooking water and bacon with drippings, tossing to combine. Add more cooking water to moisten if necessary. Season with salt and pepper.

Yield: 6 servings

Gourmet