- Bacon - perfect for adding a smoky flavor to your pasta dish
- Cherry tomatoes - packed with flavor and vitamin C, ensuring freshness
- Olive oil - great for cooking and adds a healthy fat component
- Garlic cloves - minced for an aromatic kick in the recipe
- Salt - for enhancing overall taste and seasoning
- Black pepper - freshly ground to add depth of flavor
- Fresh basil leaves - optional but recommended for a burst of herbaceous freshness
- Parmesan cheese - grated, perfect for adding a rich, savory element
- Pasta (such as spaghetti or penne) - the base ingredient that holds everything together
Steps
### Bacon and Tomato Pasta Recipe: A Delicious Comfort Meal
**Introduction**
Looking to whip up a classic comfort food dish that's sure to please? Try our easy and delicious bacon and tomato pasta recipe! This hearty meal is packed with flavor, thanks to its savory bacon, sweet tomatoes, and rich pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party, this dish is simple enough for weeknight cooking yet impressive enough for guests.
**Ingredients**
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 8 ounces of bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 2 medium-sized ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Extra-virgin olive oil
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### Step 1: Cook the Bacon
1. **Preheat your pan:** Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat.
2. **Add bacon:** Once the pan is heated, add the chopped bacon and cook until it's crispy. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
#### Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
1. **Remove bacon:** Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked bacon from the skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain.
2. **Add garlic and tomatoes:** In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
#### Step 3: Prepare Pasta
1. **Boil water:** Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. **Cook pasta:** Add salt to the boiling water according to package instructions, then add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
#### Step 4: Combine Ingredients
1. **Drain pasta:** Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. **Combine flavors:** Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet with the garlic and tomatoes. Toss in the drained spaghetti and stir well to coat evenly.
#### Step 5: Finish and Serve
1. **Adjust seasoning:** If needed, add more salt or pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out slightly by adding some of the reserved pasta water.
2. **Add herbs (optional):** Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
3. **Serve hot:** Divide the pasta among bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
### Conclusion
Creating a bacon and tomato pasta is straightforward yet incredibly satisfying. This recipe combines simple, familiar ingredients into a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or treat yourself after a long week, this hearty meal will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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