Thin Spaghetti With Spinach And Bacon
A flavorful and light pasta dish combining crispy bacon, tender spinach, garlic, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with rich, savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium to low heat until browned and crisp.
- Drain the bacon on paper towels, crumble, and set aside. Pour off all but one tablespoon of bacon fat and add olive oil to the skillet.
- Add the garlic and spinach, tossing to coat the leaves with oil.
- Add diced tomatoes and white wine to the skillet and simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and flavors meld.
- Meanwhile, cook the thin spaghetti in the boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the spinach mixture, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon, or a mix of both. Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen, but ensure it's thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This dish can also be enhanced by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread pairs beautifully with it, making for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or shrimp, which complements the spinach and bacon flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through to maintain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thin Spaghetti With Spinach And Bacon contains roughly 1619 calories, with 41g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (166% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (151% of the Daily Value), and iron (125% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2353mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of thin spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative if you're looking for a healthier option. It will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may take a minute or two longer to become al dente.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of lemon juice and water to maintain acidity without using alcohol. Just remember to adjust seasoning to taste, as broth may be saltier than wine.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding mushrooms or smoked paprika, which can mimic the depth usually provided by bacon. This way, you keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).