If you're in search of a quick, mouthwatering meal that combines the savory richness of bacon with the fresh sweetness of peas, look no further! This Bacon and Pea Pasta is not only a delightful Italian dish but also a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can impress your family or guests with a gourmet experience right at home. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 150g bacon, diced
- 200g peas, fresh or frozen
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 200g of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the 150g of diced bacon. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is cooked, add the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- If you are using fresh peas, add them to the skillet now and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender. If you are using frozen peas, add them directly to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- When the pasta is ready, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the bacon and peas.
- Gently toss the pasta with the bacon and peas, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. The starch from the pasta water will help to bind the ingredients together.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the 50g of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as the bacon and Parmesan can be quite salty.
- Serve the Bacon and Pea Pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli, to make sure every bite is flavorful.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always cook your pasta al dente to maintain a pleasing texture. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce!
- Bacon Crispiness: For the best flavor, ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy. This adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender peas.
- Garlic Timing: Add the minced garlic just after the bacon is cooked to prevent burning. A fragrant garlic aroma elevates the dish to a whole new level.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: If using fresh peas, cook them just until tender to retain their vibrant color and sweetness. Frozen peas are a great time-saver and can be added directly to the skillet.
- Cheese Melting: Stir in the Parmesan cheese off the heat to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping. This creates a creamy texture that binds the dish together.
- Taste as You Go: Season gradually, especially with salt, as the bacon and cheese already contribute a lot of flavor. Adjust to your personal preference for the perfect balance.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving. It adds a professional touch that makes the dish look as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
