This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a quick and yummy dish that combines crispy bacon with sweet peas, all tossed in delicious pasta. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how the salty bacon pairs with the little pops of sweetness from the peas. Plus, it’s so easy to make—you can have dinner ready in no time, giving you more couch time later! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like to use linguine for its nice texture, but spaghetti works just as well. If you’re gluten-free, you can try brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta—both options taste great!
Bacon: Any bacon works, but pancetta adds a lovely depth. For a lighter version, turkey bacon is a nice substitute. If you’re vegetarian, use smoked tofu for that smoky flavor.
Peas: Frozen peas are super handy here, as they’re sweet and ready to go. You can swap with fresh peas, but be sure to cook them a little longer. Other veggies like spinach or broccoli can also work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Perfectly Cook My Pasta?
Cooking pasta seems simple, but getting it just right makes a difference. Here’s a fool-proof way to cook it:
- Start with a large pot of boiling water and add plenty of salt. It should taste like the sea! This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Stir the pasta right after adding it to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for cooking time, but always taste a minute before it’s done. It should be al dente—firm but not hard!
- Remember to reserve some cooking water before draining. It’s great for adjusting the sauce later.
Using these tips can help you make pasta like a pro every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Bacon And Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 350g (12 oz) linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 150g (5 oz) frozen peas
- Water for boiling pasta
For the Sauce:
- 150g (5 oz) bacon or pancetta, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche (optional, for creamier sauce)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish is quick and takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Peas:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the frozen peas to cook along with it. When everything is cooked, drain the pasta and peas together in a colander, but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Crispy Bacon Time!
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large frying pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are crispy and browned. You want them nice and crunchy for that great flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the bacon is crispy, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine Everything:
Lower the heat and add the drained pasta and peas right into the pan with the bacon and garlic. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure all the pasta is coated with those yummy flavors.
5. Make it Creamy (Optional):
If you’re looking for a creamier sauce, now’s the time to stir in the heavy cream or crème fraîche. If it looks a bit thick, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you get the desired consistency.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta mix and toss well until it melts and coats everything nicely. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve up your creation! Dish out the Bacon and Pea Pasta onto plates or into bowls. If you like, you can garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful pasta dish! 🍝
Can I Use Frozen Peas in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work great in this recipe and make preparation quick and easy. They don’t require any thawing; just add them directly to the boiling pasta a few minutes before it’s done cooking!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can omit it for a lighter dish or substitute with crème fraîche or even Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. If you prefer a completely dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream or nut milk and adding a bit of nutritional yeast for richness.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the bacon and garlic mixture in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, cook the pasta and peas, then combine everything. It should be consumed within a day for the best taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bacon and Pea Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce while warming it on the stove or in the microwave for even heating.