The Second Coming

Well…. Jesus is BACK and he’s not pissed like everyone thought he would be.  In fact, he’s quite chill and hanging out in Viterbo.  Last week I saw him … Him… daily at the piazza del plebiscito.  This week He seems to have moved uptown and is hanging out at the fountain about 20 yards from my apartamento.  He’s just sort of grooving and watching people.  You know.  Not judging.  Being a true stylist.  In short… He’s FABULOUS! 

I had my medieval history class this morning and it was TOO inspiring.  Marco is our teacher and he is passionate and glorious.  I am learning so very much.  In fact, I’m learning so much it makes me hungry.

So, after class I go to the market and get the ingredients for pasta carbonara.  What is for lunch, you ask?  This:

First, these are gloriously beautiful and exquisite zucchini with their flowers.  I am going to saute these little beauties in some olive oil, salt and pepper.

Second, pasta carbonara.  This is SO totally easy but it is all about technique, darlings.  So, you need some fresh pasta (about half a pound or so), garlic, two eggs, pecorino, butter, pancetta (75 grams) and some salt and pepper.  This will make about 2-3 servings.

Put water and salt into a pot.  Turn on heat.

In a sauce pan that is big enough to hold the pasta as well, put in butter and heat.  When melted add pancetta and mashed garlic clove (just smash it because you are going to remove it later).

While that is browning, crack two eggs into a bowl and add about 2/3 cup of pecorino (try and get the best… what I have learned is that pecorino IS the sauce so don’t get crappy stuff)

When water is boiling, add fresh pasta, wait till it returns to a boil and then time for 2 minutes.

Pancetta should be brown so turn off heat and remove garlic. 

After 2  minutes, use tongs to pull pasta out of water and put in pan with pancetta.  Toss and toss.  Pour in your egg and cheese mixture. Add a bit of pasta water to keep it moist and satiny. 

Toss it like a MONKEY, girl, because this is what cooks it.  If it seems a bit soupy you can turn the heat on for just a bit.  But don’t overcook. 

Put some freshly ground pepper on it and enjoy your lunch.  Ciao, bella!