Linguine with pancetta and sauteed cherry tomatoes
Linguine with pancetta and sautéed cherry tomatoes combines crispy pancetta with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil for a quick Italian-inspired dish. This simple recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
4 oz bacon1 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 cups cherry tomatoes
6 garlic cloves
4 tbsp basil
1/4 tsp red pepper
12 oz pasta
1/4 cup olive oil
Linguine with pancetta and sautéed cherry tomatoes is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the savory flavor of pancetta with the sweet juiciness of cherry tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated meal, offering a balance of textures and flavors that will surely please your palate.
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced pancetta (or bacon) to the skillet and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove the pancetta from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Leave 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with the pancetta fat, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, and return the crispy pancetta to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well.
- If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to help create a sauce.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the pasta and toss again to coat.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and toss everything together until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (additional salt and pepper, if needed).
- Serve the linguine hot, with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired. Enjoy!
Linguine with pancetta and sautéed cherry tomatoes is a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress. The combination of the smokey pancetta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic is simply unbeatable. By following these tips, you'll create a delicious and memorable meal that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
Linguine with pancetta and sauteed cherry tomatoes FAQ:
Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to taste it a minute or two before the indicated time for best results.
Yes, if you don't have pancetta, you can substitute it with bacon or even turkey bacon for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
If the pasta mixture appears dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired sauciness.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Any variety of cherry tomatoes, such as sweet or grape tomatoes, will work well. Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
Tips:
- Use fresh and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a nice crunch to the dish.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help create a silky sauce.
- Finely chop the garlic to ensure even distribution of flavor.
- Fresh basil can be added at the end for a burst of freshness and color.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 580kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 4.27g
Sugar 5g
Fat 33g
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