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Creamy Zucchini and Broccoli Pasta with Bacon

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Linguine tossed in a velvety garlic cream sauce, paired with sautéed zucchini, broccoli florets, and crispy bits of smoky bacon for a comforting yet vibrant pasta dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup small broccoli florets
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same skillet, discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 teaspoon. Add butter and olive oil.
  4. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add sliced zucchini and broccoli. Cook for 4–5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add the drained pasta and bacon into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt or extra Parmesan as needed.
  7. Serve hot, optionally garnished with crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Notes

  • You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.
  • Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for variation.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg