Spaghetti Aglio Olio Pasta with Bacon
Delight your senses with this exquisite Spaghetti Aglio Olio Pasta with Bacon, a classic Italian dish that combines the earthy flavors of garlic and herbs with the irresistible crispiness of bacon. This quick yet indulgent recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends and family. Follow the detailed instructions below to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti Pasta | 400 grams |
| Garlic | 10 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Mixed Herbs (Dried) | 2 teaspoons |
| Bacon Strips | 6 strips, cut into small pieces |
| Salt | To taste |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Parsley Leaves | 1 stalk, chopped |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 kcal |
| Protein | ~18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | ~62 grams |
| Fat | ~22 grams |
| Fiber | ~3 grams |
| Sodium | ~700 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 mins |
| Cooking Time | 35 mins |
| Total Time | 45 mins |
Servings
| Servings | 4 |
|---|
Cuisine
| Cuisine | Italian |
|---|
Course
| Course | Dinner |
|---|
Diet
| Diet | Non-Vegetarian |
|---|
Instructions
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Boil the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling the spaghetti pasta. In a large saucepan, fill it with enough water to allow the pasta to move freely. Bring the water to a vigorous boil, then add the spaghetti along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture—this means it should be firm to the bite but cooked through.
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Drain and Cool the Pasta: Once the spaghetti is cooked to perfection, drain it in a colander. To halt the cooking process and ensure the pasta retains its firmness, run it under cold tap water for a few moments. After draining, drizzle a touch of olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking and toss it gently. Set the pasta aside.
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Cook the Bacon: In the same saucepan, add the chopped bacon strips and cook over medium heat until they turn golden brown and crispy, allowing the fat to render beautifully. Once the bacon is crisp, carefully remove it from the pan, leaving the rendered fat behind. You can choose to discard the fat or use it in place of olive oil for a richer flavor in your Aglio Olio.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it turns a light golden brown, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Add Seasonings: Once the garlic is aromatic, sprinkle in the red chilli flakes and mixed herbs. Stir for just a few seconds to release their flavors, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Combine Pasta and Bacon: Now, it’s time to combine the elements. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss it well, ensuring that each strand is beautifully coated in the garlicky oil. Follow this by adding the crispy bacon, tossing again to mix everything thoroughly.
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Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt over the pasta and taste to check the seasoning, adjusting it as necessary to suit your preference.
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Plate and Garnish: Once everything is perfectly mixed, turn off the heat and transfer the Bacon Spaghetti Aglio Olio onto a serving plate. For a final touch of flavor and presentation, grate parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with the chopped parsley leaves.
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Serve and Enjoy: Present this delectable dish alongside Herbed Dinner Rolls and a bowl of Cream of Celery Soup to create a delightful Italian dinner experience at home. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and the crispy texture of the bacon as you savor each bite with friends and family.
Tips for Serving
- Wine Pairing: Pair this pasta dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a light Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the overall dining experience.
- Additional Variations: Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor, or consider tossing in some crushed nuts for extra crunch.
By following these steps, you’ll create a hearty and satisfying Spaghetti Aglio Olio Pasta with Bacon that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table, ensuring a memorable meal that is both simple and sophisticated. Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with your loved ones!
