This bacon and egg pasta with fresh herbs is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a hearty meal. The crispy bacon, combined with the creamy eggs and fresh vegetables, creates a rich and satisfying pasta dish. The addition of parsley and spring onions adds a burst of freshness that balances the savory flavors. This recipe is simple to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Water (for boiling pasta)
- A bunch of parsley, chopped
- A bunch of spring onions, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for cooking
- 200 grams of bacon, chopped
- 120 grams of pasta
- 3 eggs
- ½ bell pepper, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 120g of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use, and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden.
- Add the diced bell pepper and tomato to the skillet with the bacon. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Add the chopped parsley and spring onions to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Bacon
- Once the bacon and vegetables are cooked, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the bacon and vegetable mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to coat the pasta evenly. The heat from the pasta and bacon will cook the eggs gently, creating a creamy sauce. Add a little reserved pasta water if you need to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
- Serve the bacon and egg pasta immediately, garnished with extra chopped parsley and spring onions if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- Pasta water: Always reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining. It helps to adjust the consistency of the sauce and makes the dish creamier.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, top the pasta with grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese before serving.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Estimated)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bacon and egg pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy eggs, and fresh herbs gives it a unique depth of flavor that is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t take much time to prepare.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This dish provides a good balance of protein from the eggs and bacon, while the pasta offers a source of carbohydrates for energy. The fresh parsley and spring onions add vitamins and antioxidants, while the bell pepper and tomato contribute fiber and vitamin C.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bacon and egg pasta with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or another plant-based protein to make the dish vegetarian.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or some diced fresh chili to the egg mixture for extra heat.
- Cheesy Version: Stir in some grated cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, into the egg mixture for a cheesier dish.
Conclusion
This bacon and egg pasta is the perfect dish for a comforting, flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the bacon and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, mix everything together, and add the egg mixture. -
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. -
Can I make this dish without eggs?
If you’re looking to make this dish without eggs, you can try using a plant-based egg alternative or simply toss the pasta with the bacon, vegetables, and a little cream or cheese for a creamy sauce.