Pasta salad with bacon, spinach, and parmesan

Delicious pasta salad with bacon, spinach, and parmesan

Welcome to the culinary world of salads! Today, I invite you to discover a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe: the pasta salad with bacon, spinach, and parmesan. This combination of ingredients will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of freshness and elegance to your table. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply for a quick dinner after a long day, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 200 g flour (for pasta dough) or 500 g store-bought tagliatelle
- 280 g bacon (sliced)
- 120 g fresh spinach
- 120 g parmesan (grated or sliced)
- 200 ml cream
- 100 g butter
- 5 g salt
- 5 g pepper
- 1/2 packet of Knorr Salad Dressing Tzatziki

A bit of history:
Pasta salads have become popular due to their versatility, allowing cooks to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. Combining pasta with fresh vegetables and proteins provides a balanced meal full of nutrients. This recipe combines the salty taste of bacon with the freshness of spinach, while the parmesan adds a touch of refinement.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the pasta dough (optional):
If you want to make fresh pasta, start by mixing the two eggs with 200 g of flour in a large bowl. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This will help the gluten develop, making the dough easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the pasta:
If you chose to use store-bought pasta, skip this step. If you made the dough, after it has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface using a rolling pin. Then, use a pasta machine or a knife to cut the dough into thin strips of tagliatelle. Don’t forget to sprinkle flour on the pasta to prevent sticking.

3. Boiling the pasta:
Regardless of your choice, boil the pasta in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or according to the package instructions, until al dente. Once ready, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. Preparing the sauce:
In a large pan, melt 100 g of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced bacon and fry until crispy and golden. This will add a rich, savory flavor to the salad.

5. Adding the vegetables:
Once the bacon is cooked, add the fresh spinach. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, add the cream and 1/2 packet of Knorr Salad Dressing Tzatziki, stirring continuously. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finalizing the salad:
Add the boiled pasta to the pan and mix well to coat it with the delicious sauce. Once all ingredients are combined, sprinkle the grated or sliced parmesan on top.

7. Serving:
Serve the salad warm, garnished with a few fresh spinach leaves and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of parmesan. It can be accompanied by a simple green salad or a slice of garlic toast.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of freshness, try adding some halved cherry tomatoes or black olives.
- This recipe is very versatile! You can substitute bacon with chicken breast, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- You can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them the next day. The flavor will intensify, and it will be just as delicious!

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is an excellent choice for higher fiber and nutrient intake.

2. What type of cream is recommended?
Cooking cream is the most suitable, but you can also use Greek-style yogurt for a creamier texture.

3. How can I make this salad lighter?
Reduce the amount of bacon and use reduced-fat cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad offers a balanced combination of protein (from bacon and parmesan), carbohydrates (from pasta), and vitamins (from spinach). Spinach is an excellent source of iron, vitamins A and C, while bacon and parmesan add a boost of flavor and umami.

Possible variations:
- Substitute bacon with smoked salmon for a seafood salad with delicate flavors.
- Add toasted nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

So, get ready to savor every bite of this pasta salad with bacon, spinach, and parmesan. A quick, simple, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!