Bacon and Vegetable Spirals One Pot Pasta

Bacon and Vegetable Spirals – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to a world full of flavors, colors, and tastes! Today, I invite you to prepare a savory recipe for spiral pasta with bacon and vegetables, an easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick dinner or a hearty lunch. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, offering a delightful combination of ingredients that complement each other. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is for everyone!

A Bit of History

Pasta has a long history, with deep roots in various culinary cultures. It has evolved over time, adapting to local ingredients and dietary habits. Today, pasta is a versatile ingredient used in numerous dishes around the world. Combining it with bacon and vegetables gives it a rich flavor and pleasing texture, making it a beloved main course for many.

Necessary Ingredients

- 300 g Baneasa spiral pasta made from durum wheat
- 125 g diced bacon
- 1 red onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 stalk of celery
- 100 g fennel
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 200 ml cooking cream
- 1 teaspoon iodized salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan

Preparing the Ingredients

The first step to achieving a perfect result is to prepare our ingredients. Wash all the vegetables well. Dice the red onion into small cubes and slice the red bell pepper into thin strips. Cut the celery into rounds and slice the fennel thinly. These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Preparation

1. In a deep skillet or a semi-pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and let it brown for 3-4 minutes until crispy. The aroma of the bacon will fill the kitchen and create a delicious base for the other ingredients.

2. Add the chopped vegetables (red onion, bell pepper, celery, and fennel) to the skillet. Stir well and let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. At this point, you will want to add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to enhance the flavor.

3. Once the vegetables have softened, add the spiral pasta to the skillet. Cover the pasta with water (about 500 ml) and stir. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything boil over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

4. Once the pasta is cooked, add the cooking cream and stir gently. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes for the sauce to thicken and blend perfectly with the pasta and vegetables.

5. Finally, add the chopped green onions, green garlic, and rosemary sprig. Mix well to distribute the flavors. You can adjust the seasonings to taste.

6. Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated parmesan on top. It will melt slightly, adding a touch of creaminess and rich flavor.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some black olives or capers, which will provide an interesting contrast of tastes. Also, if you want a spicier dish, add some chili flakes.

This spiral pasta with bacon and vegetables pairs perfectly with a fresh salad full of seasonal vegetables and a glass of dry white wine or a citrus cocktail. It is an easy meal to prepare and ideal for a relaxing evening at home or to impress friends at a dinner party.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Durum wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates that ensure energy, while the vegetables contribute vitamins and fiber. Bacon offers protein, and the cream adds healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet. Additionally, rosemary is known for its antioxidant properties, contributing to better overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, providing higher fiber and nutrient content.

2. What can I use instead of bacon?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, try smoked tofu or grilled mushrooms to add a rich flavor.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Broccoli, zucchini, or carrots are just a few options you can add to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.

4. How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the pasta in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little milk or water to maintain the sauce's consistency.

So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe for spiral pasta with bacon and vegetables. It is simple, quick, and full of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!