Penne with bacon and oven-baked pesto

Name: Penne with bacon and oven-baked pesto - Olivia O.
Ingredients: 250 g smooth penne pasta; 150 g pesto; 125 g mozzarella; 150 g cherry tomatoes; 5 slices of bacon; salt; dried basil

Pasta/Pizza - Penne with bacon and oven-baked pesto by Olivia O. - Recipia

Delicious baked pasta recipe with bacon and pesto Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 15 minutes Total time: 30 minutes Number of servings: 4 Necessary ingredients: - 250 g smooth penne pasta - 150 g pesto (preferably homemade for an authentic taste) - 125 g fresh mozzarella - 150 g cherry tomatoes - 5 slices of bacon - Salt, to taste - Dried basil for decoration Recipe introduction: Pasta is a versatile dish loved by many cultures around the world. This recipe with bacon and baked pesto adds a burst of flavor, combining the creamy texture of mozzarella cheese with the intense aroma of bacon and pesto. It’s a perfect choice for a quick, cozy, and impressive dinner that the whole family will enjoy. It’s also a great way to use up leftover pasta or pesto. A bit of history: Pesto has deep roots in Mediterranean cuisine, being a versatile sauce that has evolved over time. It is known for its combination of basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, but each region has its unique version. In this recipe, pesto becomes an essential ingredient, enriching the pasta with a vibrant and aromatic flavor. Step-by-step for a perfect result: 1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on preference), as this will significantly enhance the flavor of the pasta. When the water starts to boil, add the smooth penne pasta. Boil for 8 minutes or according to the package instructions. It’s important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. 2. Preparing the ingredients: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Then, transfer it to a large bowl. Meanwhile, wash the cherry tomatoes, dry them with a paper towel, and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Drain the mozzarella well and cut it into small cubes so that it melts evenly during baking. 3. Frying the bacon: In a non-stick skillet, fry the bacon slices until they are crispy and browned on both sides. This step will add a delicious flavor and a texture contrast to the final dish. Once the bacon is ready, place it on a paper towel to remove excess fat. 4. Mixing the ingredients: In the bowl with pasta, add the pesto and the cut tomatoes. Gently mix to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Then, incorporate the mozzarella cubes and the crispy bacon, mixing again carefully to avoid crushing the pasta. 5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Line a round baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and level the surface. Place the bacon slices on top and sprinkle some dried basil for added aroma. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted and slightly browned. 6. Serving: Once the pasta is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, sprinkled with fresh dried basil. This recipe can be accompanied by a simple green salad or a crunchy baguette to complete the meal. Tips and tricks: - Pesto variation: If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try arugula or olive pesto, which will provide a different and interesting taste. - Additions: You can add roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for extra nutrients and color. - Cheese variations: Instead of mozzarella, you can use feta cheese or goat cheese to change the flavor profile. - Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving, being a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from pesto and bacon. Additionally, tomatoes add essential antioxidants. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Of course! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and will provide a slightly different but delicious taste. 2. How can I make pesto at home? A simple pesto recipe includes fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, grated Parmesan, and garlic. Blend all the ingredients until you get a smooth paste. 3. What other types of meat can I use? If you want a bacon-free version, you can try chicken breast or some slices of dry salami for a different flavor. 4. Is the recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze pasta with bacon and pesto, but make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. 5. What drinks can be paired with it? A dry white wine or a fresh lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this delicious meal. In conclusion, this baked pasta recipe with bacon and pesto is perfect for a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will surely impress your loved ones. Enjoy!

Ingredients

250 g smooth penne pasta
150 g pesto
125 g mozzarella
150 g cherry tomatoes
5 slices of bacon
salt
dried basil

Penne with bacon and oven-baked pesto

Ingredients

Tags

Categories