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Choosing the right pasta is crucial to the success of any pasta dish, and for Bacon & Spinach Delight Pasta, the choice between spaghetti and penne can significantly impact the overall experience.

Easy Bacon and Spinach Pasta

Embark on a culinary journey with Bacon & Spinach Delight Pasta, a dish that beautifully blends smoky bacon, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta. This flavorful recipe balances indulgence with nutrition, featuring ingredients rich in vitamins and minerals. In just 30 minutes, impress your loved ones with a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. Discover tips for ingredients, cooking techniques, and customization to make this dish your own!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) spaghetti or penne pasta

6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped

3 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for kick)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Freshly ground black pepper and extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.

      Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet with the rendered bacon fat, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Toss to combine well. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

          Add Bacon and Cheese: Stir in the crispy bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

            Serve: Plate the pasta and finish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Optionally, you can garnish with some extra lemon wedges on the side.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                10 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4