How to Make Pancetta Pasta with Pine Nuts
Step #1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the pine nuts on the sheet in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the nuts turn a light golden brown. Set aside to cool. Step #2: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, but reserve the cooking water. Return the pasta to the pot. Set aside. Step #3: Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the pancetta and cook for about 4 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and cook for another 3 minutes until softened. Add the pine nuts and 1 tablespoon of the sage to the pan and cook for another minute to warm the ingredients. Turn off the heat. Step #4: Add the pancetta mixture to the al dente pasta in the pot. Add 1 cup of reserved water, cheese, and butter, then toss together to coat the pasta and melt the butter. Step #5: Season to taste with salt and a generous amount of pepper, then garnish with the remaining sage. Serve hot. For reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to maintain moisture.
