How do you keep asparagus from getting mushy in pasta?

To keep asparagus tender and slightly crisp, avoid overcooking. It should take just 2-3 minutes to cook asparagus in a skillet.

Can I use pancetta instead of bacon?

Absolutely! Swap in a 4-ounce package of diced pancetta for an elevated take on this skillet pasta.

What pasta shapes work best for bacon and asparagus pasta?

Choose a relatively short pasta shape and cut the asparagus about the same size as the pasta. Tube-shaped pastas like penne or rigatoni work very well, as do spiral shapes.

What can I use in the pasta dish instead of asparagus?

Try swapping in broccoli, green beans, peas, or zucchini.

Should I cook the bacon before the pasta?

It takes about 8 minutes to render chopped bacon and most pasta shapes take at least 10-12 minutes to cook. That means it's best to start the bacon and pasta at about the same time.

This 20-Minute Bacon and Asparagus Pasta Is Peak Spring Cooking

Name: Bacon and Asparagus Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta, such as penne or fusilli; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1/4 teaspoon table salt; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon (optional); 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese, more for garnish

Description

This Bacon and Asparagus Pasta is a light and refreshing dinner, highlighting the flavors of spring with tender asparagus and crispy bacon. It takes just 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 ounces pasta, such as penne or fusilli
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon table salt
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon (optional)
2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese, more for garnish

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Instructions

1) Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid.

2) Meanwhile, add bacon to a cold large skillet and heat over medium. Cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat; reserve the fat.

3) Add the asparagus to the skillet in an even layer and cook, mostly undisturbed, until lightly browned, 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and continue cooking until crisp tender, about 1 minute. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta cooking liquid along with the heavy cream and simmer until slightly reduced, 30 seconds.

4) Stir in tarragon and parmesan cheese. Add the drained pasta, toss well, and simmer until the pasta is tender and well coated, 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the bacon. Serve with more bacon and tarragon.

Notes

1) You can swap out the tarragon for Parsley, Chives, Scallions, or Basil.

2) Do not overcook the asparagus or it will turn slightly brown and get mushy.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Sautee
Cuisine: American