Bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts

Bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts blends crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and crunchy pine nuts in a flavorful pasta sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

15 Nov 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 red cabbage
1/2 onion
6 strips bacon
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1/8 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup pasta sauce
2 dash black pepper

Bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. This recipe combines the savory taste of bacon with the crunchiness of pine nuts and the unique flavors of red cabbage, all tied together with a flavorful pasta sauce. It's a well-balanced dish loaded with nutrients and sure to please your taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Remove the outer leaves of the red cabbage and finely shred the remaining cabbage.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Cut the bacon strips into small pieces.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts:
- Place a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pine nuts and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and have a nutty aroma. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the pine nuts from the skillet and set them aside for later use.

3. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large frying pan, add the bacon pieces.
- Cook over medium heat until the bacon becomes crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Leave the bacon fat in the pan.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same frying pan with the bacon fat, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant.

5. Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the shredded cabbage to the frying pan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has wilted and softened, about 10-15 minutes.

6. Combine and Season:
- Once the cabbage is cooked, add the crispy bacon back into the pan.
- Pour in the pasta sauce and stir to combine.
- Add the two dashes of black pepper and mix thoroughly.
- Let the mixture cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the cabbage and bacon mixture to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Bacon Cabbage Pasta with Pine Nuts!

Indulging in this bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts not only satisfies your craving for a hearty meal but also provides a nutritional punch. The combination of ingredients results in a flavorful, colorful, and healthy dish that you will find yourself coming back to. Try this recipe for an easy yet impressive meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

Bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts FAQ:

What is the best type of pasta to use for this recipe?

While the recipe doesn't specify a pasta type, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well to hold the sauce and ingredients. Choose your favorite type!

How long should I cook the cabbage until it's tender?

Cook the shredded cabbage for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it wilts and softens to your desired tenderness.

Can I substitute the bacon with a different protein or make it vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative. For a vegetarian version, consider adding mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture.

How do I know when the bacon is crisp?

Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes, until it is browned and crispy. Watch closely as it can burn quickly. It should feel firm and crunchy.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.

Cooking Tips:

- Opt for high-quality bacon to enhance the savory flavor of the dish.

- Toast the pine nuts lightly before adding them to the pasta for an added depth of flavor.

- Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced versions.

- Cook the pasta al dente so that it can absorb the flavors from the sauce better.

- For added richness, consider sprinkling some Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 12g
Fat 15g

Bacon cabbage pasta with pine nuts