This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a yummy dish that mixes crunchy bacon with sweet peas and pasta. It’s super quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
Who doesn’t love crispy bacon? It adds a fun twist to the pasta! I usually serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—so good you might want to lick the plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works best for this dish, but you could also use penne or fettuccine if you have those on hand. Whole wheat pasta is a great whole grain option!
Bacon: Bacon is key for that crunchy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or even pancetta adds a lovely flavor. Vegetarian? Try smoked tempeh for a similar taste!
Peas: Fresh pea pods are sweet and delicious, but frozen peas are just as good—no need to thaw! If you can’t find peas, chopped spinach or asparagus can also work in this recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice savory touch. If you want to keep it dairy-free, nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese can substitute well. I personally love a good sprinkle of pecorino for extra flavor!
How Do I Get the Perfect Pasta Sauce?
The key to a creamy sauce lies in using some pasta water. It’s starchy and great for helping the sauce cling to the pasta. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook pasta until al dente and remember to save some cooking water before draining.
- After mixing pasta with ingredients in the skillet, gradually add splashes of reserved pasta water. Stir continuously to achieve a silky texture.
- Don’t rush! Toss everything together gently on low heat to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and coats the pasta.
Follow these tips, and you’re bound to have a fantastic, flavorful dish every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍝
Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Bacon:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
For the Vegetables:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take you about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes frying the bacon and bringing everything together. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon, letting it sizzle until it gets nice and crispy—this will take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess fat. Don’t throw away the bacon fat; it’s going to add flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, with the bacon fat still in there, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute. Stir it around until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Add the Peas:
Next, toss in the peas into the skillet. If you’re using frozen peas, just cook them until they’re heated through, which will take about 2-3 minutes. If using fresh peas, just stir them until tender.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet alongside the crispy bacon and drizzle in the olive oil. Toss everything together gently over low heat to let the flavors combine.
6. Create the Sauce:
Now, it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. As you mix it together, add a splash of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you have a nice, light sauce that coats the pasta well.
7. Season and Serve:
Finish it off by seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve your delicious bacon and pea pasta immediately while it’s warm! Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.
Enjoy your quick and tasty bacon and pea pasta! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary from regular pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or you can use pancetta. For a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative for a similar taste!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the pasta and bacon, and keep them separately in the fridge. Just reheat them together on the stove before adding the garlic and peas when you’re ready to eat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the sauce.
