Pasta with Pancetta and Spinach

Name: Pasta with Pancetta and Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300 g pasta (penne or your choice); 150 g pancetta (diced); 200 g fresh spinach (washed and dried); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp olive oil; to taste salt and pepper

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Delicious pasta with crispy pancetta and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce.

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta with pancetta and spinach is a delightful dish that combines the rich, salty flavours of pancetta with the fresh and slightly earthy taste of spinach. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a balance of nutrition and indulgence. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, making each bite a comforting experience. With the addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this dish elevates to a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Pro tip: Adding salt to the pasta water enhances the flavour of the pasta.

Cook the pancetta

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté garlic and spinach

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Pro tip: You can add the spinach in batches if your skillet is small.

Prepare the sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Pro tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

Pro tip: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh spinach for the best flavour and texture.
For a vegetarian version, skip the pancetta and add mushrooms.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency.
Grate fresh Parmesan for an authentic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it well before adding to the skillet.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, fusilli, or any short pasta work well as they hold the sauce nicely.

How long does it take to cook?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pancetta and add mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the flavours of this dish. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce's creamy texture.