Penne Pasta, Peas, and Bacon

Instructions:

1. Cook the Penne:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Crisp the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
   • Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the drippings.
3. Sauté garlic and peas:
   • In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic in the bacon drippings until fragrant.
   • Add the thawed peas and cook for 2–3 minutes.
4. Prepare the sauce.
   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the garlic and peas.
   • Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.
   • Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
5. Combine pasta, bacon, and sauce.
   • Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the bacon and sauce.
   • If needed, add the reserved pasta water gradually to reach the desired consistency.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Sprinkle crispy bacon over the pasta.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve immediately.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Twist:
  • Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. Enhance the flavor with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Herbaceous Infusion:
  • Add fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, to the sauce for a burst of aromatic freshness.
• Lemon Zest:
  • Elevate the dish with a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy kick.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Version:
  • Replace penne with spiralized zucchini or a low-carb pasta alternative.
  • Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of regular flour for a keto-friendly sauce thickener.
• Low-Carb Version:
  • Opt for a whole-grain or legume-based pasta for reduced carb content.
  • Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk for a lower-calorie option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? A1: Certainly! Fresh peas work well; blanch them before adding them to the skillet.

Q2: How can I make the sauce creamier? A2: Increase the heavy cream or add a dollop of cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A3: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components in advance and assemble them before serving. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Q4: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese? A4: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses can be excellent substitutes.

Q5: Can I add protein to make it a complete meal? A5: Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled sausage can be delightful additions.

In conclusion, our Penne Pasta, Peas, and Bacon recipe is a testament to the art of transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore vegetarian, keto, or low-carb variations, this pasta dish promises to be a star on your dining table. Elevate your pasta experience with the delightful combination of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s not just a pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that harmonize to create a symphony of satisfaction on your plate!