Bought pappardelle, bacon, medley tomatoes and butter on sale. Found that I have a big packet of black peppercorns. I refilled it so, I decided to make black pepper butter sauce.

Google: “Pappardelle is a long, flat noodle, about 2 to 3 centimeters wide. It’s made from fine durum wheat and eggs. Originally from Tuscany, this pasta has a rough surface, making it great for thick sauces. Dried pappardelle is often sold in nests to prevent breakage and sticking in boiling water.”

“Sliced bacon is cured and smoked pork belly sold in thin strips, rich in protein, fats, and sodium, while also providing essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and choline. It supports energy levels and aids brain function, immune system, and bone health. Due to its high sodium and fat content, bacon should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, where it serves as a good protein source that contributes to tissue repair and energy conversion while helping to avoid blood sugar spikes and potentially improve mood.”

“Medley tomatoes are a blend of various varieties, including cherry, grape, and Roma, known for their diverse colours, sizes, and flavours. They are rich in key nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, potassium, and lycopene, which may aid in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease. These tomatoes also offer benefits for cognitive health and are a flavorful addition to salads, sauces, and other dishes.”

“Butter sauce is a creamy mixture primarily made of butter, often combined with liquids and seasonings. It contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K2, which support various health functions but is also high in calories and saturated fat, necessitating moderation. Grass-fed butter is particularly beneficial for bone and cardiovascular health due to its vitamin K2 content. Besides enriching the flavour of dishes, especially seafood and vegetables, butter sauce fits into low-carb diets helpful for weight management. However, excessive consumption can lead to health issues like weight gain and increased heart disease risk.”

My meal looks simple, without greens, yet healthy and delicious. Let’s cook!!!

Ingredients

1 pappardelle nest
2 long strips of bacon, cut to bite size
100 g medley tomatoes, roughly cut
2 Tbs minced garlic (you can reduce the amount)
40 g butter
oil
salt
black pepper
Parmesan Pecorino
water to cook pappardelle
chili flakes

Method

Set a pot of water over high heat to come to a boil. When the water is boiling, generously season with salt. Add the nests one at a time and stir gently, cooking for about 9 minutes until al dente.

While pappardelle cooking. Place bacon pieces in a cold pan, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. Turn the heat to medium. Cook bacon pieces, flipping it every minute or two, until it is lightly cook. Once cooked; lightly or cooked to your desired crispy or golden brown. Remove bacon from saucepan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. 

Heat a drizzle of oil in the same saucepan over medium heat. Add medley tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat if necessary. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium low heat, then add 2 Tbs minced garlic. Sizzle, stirring or swirling occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes, just until minced garlic are slightly brown. Immediately pour into serving bowl and grind black pepper onto butter garlic mixture.

Use a food clipper or a slotted spoon to transfer the pasta to the butter garlic mixture. Toss and add pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Scatter some Parmesan Pecorino, cooked bacon and medley tomatoes. Give a couple of stirs, and check the seasoning. I have grinded more black pepper on top and scatter some chili flakes. Enjoy with a glass of Pinot Grigio!!!

Note: You can use fresh sage leaves and basil. You can add leek, asparagus, broccoli, or spinach. You can add white wine to your butter sauce. You can use salted or unsalted butter. You can reduce minced garlic; 1Tbs. You can make brown butter sauce.

https://helenscchin.com/2020/10/30/pappardelle-bacon-medley-tomatoes-in-black-pepper-butter-sauce/

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