One of my all time favorite things in the universe!

My postings were slim, or I guess I should say none last week because my cooking was pretty lackluster. However, we are starting this week with a bang! With one of my favorite recipes, adjusted for one of person. I have tacked on the original recipe if you would like to see how it has changed.

The recipe that follows will make 2 generous servings of tasty spaghetti carbonara.

1/2 pound of spaghetti
4-8 slices of bacon (how much do you love bacon? I love it about 6 slices worth and use a pepper bacon that I get at the Omaha Farmers Market)
Course salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 large egg
3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup half-and half
1 cup frozen peas or fresh asparagus

I prefer to cut my bacon into roughly 1/2 inch pieces before I cook it. I use my kitchen scissors to do this because I have found that cutting bacon with a knife can be a bit tricky, and it makes the bacon cook faster. Cook the bacon to a chewy consistency, drain or place on a plate covered with a couple paper towels to soak up the grease.

While the bacon is cooking put a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a to boil. Salt the water generously then add your spaghetti and cook based on the box directions.

**Optional - Meanwhile, steam your frozen peas or saute your asparagus. If you are microwaving your peas you will place the peas in a microwave safe bowl add 1 tbsp of butter and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 2 min 45 sec and then let it sit until you are ready for it. Oh and drain the liquid before adding the peas to the carbonara.

If you have some fresh asparagus this is my favorite add it for the carbonara. Place 1 tbsp of butter in a small saute pan and let it melt. While it is melting break of the bottom end of the asparagus spears and throw them away (1/2 - 1 inch of the stalk). Then snap the rest of the asparagus into 2 inch pieces and add them to the melted butter. Add a 1/2 tsp of kosher salt and saute for 8-10 minutes.

Finally, locate a large bowl and add the half and half, egg, salt and pepper. Whisk the items together and set aside (don't worry the egg will be cooked by the hot noodles). When your noodles are done drain and immediately add them to the egg mixture. This is a crucial step. Your noodles need to be super hot to cook the eggs and make the cream sauce. Stir the noodles and the egg mixture until the noodles are coated. Then add the Parmesan cheese, bacon, and vegetables (if you have any). Mix everything together until most of the cheese is has melted.

http://www.marthastewart.com/341240/spaghetti-carbonara