Carbonara

Carbonara is a classic Roman pasta dish celebrated for its creamy, egg-based sauce that coats spaghetti or rigatoni. Its authentic ingredients are simple yet precise: cured pork (guanciale or pancetta), Pecorino Romano cheese, eggs, and freshly ground black pepper, with no cream added. It originates from Rome, Italy, and is a staple of traditional Italian cuisine.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Carbonara is a rich, energy-dense dish, being high in both fat and protein from the eggs, cheese, and pork, with carbohydrates coming from the pasta. A typical serving provides a substantial amount of protein and calcium, and generally ranges from 500 to 800 calories, depending on portion size and ingredient ratios.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	550 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	900 mg
Calcium	150 mg
Iron	3 mg
Potassium	250 mg
Vitamin A	150 mcg
Vitamin B12	1.5 mcg
Phosphorus	300 mg
Selenium	40 mcg
Zinc	3 mg

Per 1 plate (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The dish's signature creaminess is achieved purely through the emulsification of eggs and cheese with hot pasta water, a technique that highlights the skill of the cook. Nutritionally, it's a surprisingly complete meal, offering a balanced mix of macronutrients that provides lasting energy.