Chargrilled Courgette and Smoked Bacon Pasta
A great quick mid week meal if you're short of time but want something flavourful.
Ingredients
- 150g chunky pasta such as fusilli, spirali or fiorelli pasta
- 2 medium courgettes halved and sliced 1cm thick on the diagonal
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon chopped
- 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- a pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta following the packet instructions. Meanwhile, toss the courgettes in 1 tbsp of the olive oil and season. Heat a griddle pan until hot, then griddle the courgettes in batches (if required) until tender and charred on both sides (about 2 minutes each side). Once cooked, remove the courgettes to a bowl and cover with a plate to keep warm.
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan and fry the bacon until crisp and golden (about 4 minutes). Add the garlic, reduce the heat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the chilli flakes, if using.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a mug of the cooking water. Tip the cooked pasta and courgettes into the pan of bacon along with 2 tbsp of the reserved cooking water. Toss everything together. Season well and serve.
Notes
- This chargrilled courgette and smoked bacon pasta recipe is easily adapted if you’re cooking for more people.