pasta with bacon and cauliflower

Indianapolis, IN
Updated on Apr 22, 2013

Two of my favorite foods mixed with pasta? You bet! It's gotta be wonderful! Very quick and easy and with a couple tweaks can be even easier! Recipe & photo: Realsimple.com

prep time
cook time 30 Min
method ---
yield 4 serving(s)

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti (3/4 box) or pasta of your choice
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1/3 cup fresh sage leaves
  • 1 small head cauliflower cut into small florets
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3/4 cup grated pecorino or parmesan cheese

How To Make pasta with bacon and cauliflower

  • Step 1
    Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Reserve 3/4 cup of the cooking water; drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  • Step 2
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool; then break into pieces.
  • Step 3
    Add the sage to the bacon drippings in the skillet and cook over medium heat, turning once, until crisp, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate.
  • Step 4
    Add the cauliflower, 1/4 cup water, salt and pepper to the skillet and cook, covered, for 2 minutes. Uncover and cook, tossing frequently, until golden and tender, 3 to 4 minutes more.
  • Step 5
    Add the reserved cooking water and 1/2 cup of the cheese to the pasta and toss until creamy. Add the cauliflower, sage, and bacon, and toss to combine. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese before serving.
  • Step 6
    NOTE: If you're pinched for time, you may use a jar of real bacon bits and 2 (10 oz.) packages of frozen cauliflower, thawed. One to two tablespoons dried sage may be substituted for 1/3 cup fresh sage.

Discover More

Category: Pasta
Category: Pork
Keyword: #savory
Keyword: #hearty
Keyword: #tasty

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