Tuscan Kale Spaghetti Carbonara

1. Cook Pancetta and Shallot

Begin by heating a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat and sautéing the pancetta until it starts to brown, which should take about 3 minutes. Add the minced shallot and continue to stir for another 2 minutes until it softens. Pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to boil down until it's reduced by half, which takes roughly 30 seconds. Make sure to stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Once done, remove the frying pan from the heat and set it aside.

2. Cook Pasta and Kale

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti to the pot and give it an initial cook for 5 minutes. Then, introduce the chopped kale to the pot and let it cook together with the pasta for an additional 5 minutes until the pasta is al dente.

3. Prepare Egg and Cheese Mixture

While the pasta and kale are cooking, beat the eggs in a small bowl and mix in the freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses along with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will be the creamy base for your carbonara sauce.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Before draining the pasta, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help create a silky texture in your final dish. Drain the pasta and kale using a colander. Reheat the pancetta mixture briefly in the frying pan. Add the drained spaghetti and kale back into the frying pan, tossing to combine with the pancetta and shallots.

5. Finish the Sauce

To prevent the eggs from curdling, whisk ¼ cup of the reserved pasta cooking liquid into the egg and cheese mixture. The mixture should look creamy and well-blended. Pour this egg mixture into the frying pan, stirring continuously until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly. If the sauce isn't creamy, you can remove the pan from the heat to avoid overheating, or cook over low heat if necessary. Add in the remaining reserved pasta cooking liquid a little at a time to achieve a silky texture.

6. Serve

Finally, divide the Tuscan Kale Spaghetti Carbonara between two warmed bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this comforting dish.