Bacon and Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the smokiness of bacon with the fresh, green crunch of asparagus, all swathed in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. This recipe combines simple, hearty ingredients to create a comforting meal that's easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb pasta (gemelli or any preferred type)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. As the pasta cooks, keep an eye on it to achieve the perfect al dente texture. Before draining, remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water; it will be useful later to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the slices of bacon and cook them until they are browned and crispy, which should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. This will help in removing excess grease.
Step 3: In the same pan, reduce the bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons to sauté the asparagus. Add the chopped asparagus to the pan, stirring occasionally, and cook until tender but still slightly crisp, about 7 minutes. This step will infuse the asparagus with the flavorful bacon grease.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the pan with the asparagus and cook for another minute, just until the garlic is fragrant. This short cooking time prevents the garlic from burning and releasing a bitter flavor.
Step 5: Combine the cooked asparagus and garlic with the pasta in the large pot. Crumble or chop the cooked bacon and add it to the pot along with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
COOKING Note
Ensure that the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender yet crisp to add texture to the dish. The reserved pasta water is a key element in adjusting the sauce's thickness and helping it cling to the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Bacon and Asparagus Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. A side of garlic bread or a light salad complements this dish wonderfully.
Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the asparagus while it cooks.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a lighter cream sauce or even a pesto for a different taste profile.
Prep Time:
- Approximately 10-15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- Approximately 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 30-35 minutes
Nutritional Information
While specific numbers depend on the brands and quantities used, here's a rough estimate for the dish:
- Calories: 600-800 per serving
- Protein: 20-30g per serving
- Sodium: 500-700mg per serving
Bacon and Asparagus Pasta is a robust, flavorful dish that's both satisfying and relatively simple to make. It's a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to personal taste preferences and is sure to be a hit with those who enjoy a combination of savory, smoky, and creamy elements in their meals.
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