Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon

Pasta with asparagus and bacon is a simple and flavorful springtime dish. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 320 g of pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 150 g of diced smoked bacon
• 1 clove of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

1. Clean the asparagus by removing the tougher end of the stalk. Cut them into pieces, keeping the tips whole.
2. In a pan, heat some oil and add the garlic clove. Let it brown and then add the bacon. Cook until it becomes crispy.
3. Add the asparagus to the pan with the bacon and cook for about 10-15 minutes, depending on their size. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta al dente following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the asparagus and bacon, mixing well to flavor.
6. If you wish, add grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

For an extra Italian touch, you could finish the dish with a drizzle of raw extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

Curiosity

The bacon can be replaced with guanciale for a more intense flavor, or you could add a bit of fresh cream to make the dish creamier. Also, with the arrival of spring, fresh asparagus is particularly tasty and rich in nutrients.