Bacon, tomato and rocket spaghetti

Bacon, tomato, and rocket spaghetti combines smoky bacon with fresh cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula for a quick, tasty dish. It's ideal for a weeknight meal or impressing guests with minimal effort.

09 Feb 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
5 bacon strips
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 garlic cloves
5 cups arugula

Bacon, tomato, and rocket (or arugula) spaghetti is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the freshness of cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish that is sure to please everyone's taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
- When the bacon is cool enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Prepare the Tomato-Garlic Mixture:
- In the same skillet, remove any excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to burst, about 5 minutes.

4. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato-garlic mixture.
- Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add the chopped bacon and toss again.

5. Add the Arugula:
- Add the fresh arugula to the skillet and gently toss until it wilts slightly, about 1-2 minutes.

6. Season and Serve:
- Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional arugula or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Bacon, tomato, and rocket spaghetti is an incredibly flavorful and straightforward dish that brings together the best of smoky, savory, and fresh ingredients. With just a few steps and some thoughtful tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy this delicious pasta with family or friends, and relish in the compliments that are sure to come your way.

Bacon, tomato and rocket spaghetti FAQ:

How long do I cook the spaghetti?

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

What can I use instead of bacon in this recipe?

For a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon substitute. You can also omit it altogether and enhance the dish with additional vegetables.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the bacon and tomato mixture ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator and reheat before combining with spaghetti and arugula.

What is a good alternative to arugula?

If you don’t have arugula, you can substitute with spinach or kale. Remember that spinach will wilt down faster than arugula.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Tips:

- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor, and consider thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite.

- When cooking the cherry tomatoes, let them blister slightly to enhance their sweetness and create a nice texture.

- Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency.

- Add the arugula at the very end to preserve its vibrant color and prevent it from wilting too much.

- For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the olive oil and garlic mixture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 490kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 4.24g
Sugar 5g
Fat 16g

Bacon, tomato and rocket spaghetti