Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients? Look no further than our delightful Pasta Kale Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomatoes! This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant ingredients that come together in a symphony of taste. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that serves four, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. With the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon, the earthy goodness of kale, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, every bite will have you coming back for more. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the cooking tips that will make this dish a showstopper!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 2 cups of chopped kale, 4 slices of chopped bacon, 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it wilts down and becomes tender.
- Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the kale and sun-dried tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Stir in the crispy bacon and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always salt your boiling water generously before adding the pasta. This enhances the flavor right from the start, ensuring your dish is well-seasoned.
- Crispy Bacon: For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it slowly over medium heat. This allows the fat to render out and gives you that delightful crunch without burning.
- Sautéing Kale: When cooking the kale, don’t rush it! Allow it to sauté until it’s tender and wilted; this will bring out its natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Pasta Water Magic: Remember to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can be a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce's consistency, making your dish creamy and cohesive.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don’t skip the extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a rich, savory finish that elevates the entire meal!
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to this dish. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled chicken can make great additions, adding variety to your meal.
- Serve Immediately: Pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right away to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
