One of the most common challenges when making spaghetti carbonara is achieving a smooth, creamy sauce without accidentally ...

DO AHEAD: DO AHEAD Dressing, pancetta, and almonds can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Step 3. Place 2 lettuce leaves on each of 8 plates. Drizzle with some dressing.

Add the pancetta and chile and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium and cook pancetta, turning halfway through, until brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Step 3.

Drape the squash halves with the pancetta slices. Roast the squash for 45 to 50 minutes, or until tender. Transfer the pancetta to paper towels to drain. Crumble and set aside.

Pancetta: Rich, savory, and delicately sweet, pancetta has a tender texture that melts into dishes, offering a more nuanced flavor. It’s sometimes described as the more refined cousin of bacon, ...

Pancetta ranges from pale red to pinkish, with streaks of creamy-colored fat. It comes in strips as well as round loaves, which deli counters and butchers will cut to order.