Spaghetti alla Gricia

1. Prepare Ingredients and Cook Guanciale

Fill a large pot with water, add kosher salt, and bring it to a boil. In another large pot, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat, then add the guanciale or pancetta and sliced red onion. Cook for about 7 minutes until the guanciale is lightly browned and the onion has softened.

2. Cook Spaghetti

Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.

3. Combine Spaghetti and Guanciale Mixture

Combine the cooked spaghetti with the guanciale and onion mixture. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated.

4. Add Cheese and Parsley

Sprinkle in the Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheeses. Add coarsely chopped Italian parsley and mix until the cheeses melt and cling to the spaghetti.