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Spaghetti Carbonara with Crab and Meyer Lemon

A delightful dish that combines the richness of traditional carbonara with the fresh notes of crab and Meyer lemons, creating a creamy and zesty experience.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 3 large eggs These will create a luxurious custard-like base for the sauce.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutty and salty, enhancing the dish.
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley Adds color and mild herbaceous taste.
  • 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice Balances the richness of the sauce.
  • zest of 3 Meyer lemons Adds fragrant, citrusy aroma.
  • 1/2 pound lump crabmeat Provides a luxurious touch.
  • 3 tablespoons butter Creates a luscious, silky finish.
  • salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings.
Main ingredients
  • 11 ounces dry spaghetti Ultimate vessel for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • 6 ounces pancetta, chopped Provides savory depth.
  • 2 medium shallots, minced (about 1/4 cup) Adds gentle onion flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Introduces earthy fragrance.
  • 1 cup toasted bread crumbs Offers crunchy texture on top.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Infuses richness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, toss in the chopped pancetta. Cook until it starts to brown, about five minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the minced shallots and garlic, sautéing until the shallots turn golden brown, another five minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Mix the sauce
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Add the reserved pancetta mixture along with the Meyer lemon zest and juice. Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to break it up too much.
Cook the spaghetti
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water.
Combine pasta and sauce
  1. Transfer the hot pasta directly to the bowl with the egg and crab mixture. Add the butter and quickly toss everything together. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Serve
  1. Divide the pasta among four plates. Generously sprinkle with toasted bread crumbs and a little extra chopped parsley for freshness. Enjoy while it’s hot!

Notes

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Consider adding pecorino Romano for additional sharpness.