Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. pasta
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 banana, mashed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon and sauce
- Potato masher or fork to mash banana
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Add mashed banana to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the banana. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss until the pasta is coated evenly.
6. Serve the pasta in bowls and top with the crispy bacon.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use Romano cheese or Asiago cheese.
- Instead of bacon, you can use pancetta or ham.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Mash the banana well to avoid any lumps in the sauce.
- Reserve some of the pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Cook the bacon until crispy to add texture to the dish.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pasta in colorful bowls or plates to make it visually appealing.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread, green salad, roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
If the sauce becomes too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes, incorporating sweet and savory flavors.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, salty, savory
Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish as a main course for a cozy dinner at home.
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