Cherry Tomato Spaghetti all'Amatriciana

Salt

1 pound regular or thick spaghetti

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

1/4 pound chunk pancetta, cut into small pieces

1 red onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth

2 pints small cherry tomatoes

2/3 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley (a couple generous handfuls)

Pepper

1 cup basil leaves, torn or chopped

2/3 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese (a couple of generous handfuls)

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking water.

While the pasta is working, in a large skillet, heat the EVOO, 3 turns of the pan, over medium to medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the red onion, garlic and crushed red pepper and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the wine and cook for 1 minute, then add the tomatoes, parsley and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes burst, 8 to 10 minutes.

Stir in the reserved pasta cooking water and then the pasta, tossing to coat. Turn off the heat, add the basil and cheese and serve.