Bacon Florentine Pasta

Traveling through Italy taught me how quick and easy it is to cook pasta with fresh ingredients. Of course sitting at a side walk trattoria off of the Piazza Narvona gives GREAT inspiration! If you've never cooked with fresh spinach you will be surprised at how much it wilts and cooks down - so don't be intimidated by the 3 cups used in this recipe. Top this pasta dish with a couple of grilled chicken breasts, or the oh so very Italian bistecca, and you've got one fantastic speedy meal! ENJOY!

Bacon Florentine Pasta

Bacon Spaghetti Florentine is a quick and easy pasta dinner made with your favorite pasta, bacon, spinach, onions, garlic, and a mixture of Italian cheeses.

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

• 12 ounce package any style pasta
• 6 slices of center cut bacon
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1-1/2 cups shredded Italian cheeses (Mozzarella, Parmesan, Asiago)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• Italian parsley, optional

WHAT TO DO

• Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Drain, except for about 1 tablespoon bacon fat.
• Add onion and cook for about 3 or 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
• Add the spinach and stir for about 2 or 3 minutes until it is wilted.
• Add shredded cheese and cream, and toss to evenly distribute ingredients.
• Top with Italian parsley if you choose.
• Serve!

THE DOMESTIC CURATOR

Ronda