A Change of Plans...{Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pappardelle}

For the past couple of weeks, I've been offering up some super simple sides and my plan was to continue on that path for the next several weeks. However, this meal just hustled its way into the schedule as another way to use those fabulous Brussels sprouts. 

A common pairing on all of the most fabulous menus is Brussels sprouts and bacon. And, while some of us may have thought that this pairing had jumped the shark, I think this dish might just change your mind. This was a dinner this week and there were plenty of leftovers for a second night's meal. Although, I had to fight off my sweet daughter and El Syd from packing the leftovers up for the next day's lunches. 

Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Pappardelle

• 1 lb pappardelle pasta (fettucine or spaghetti would be a good sub if you can't find pappardelle in your store)
• 1/2 lb thick sliced bacon, diced
• 1/4 C sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, root end trimmed and thinly sliced
• 1/2 C white wine
• 1/4 C freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; save 1 C of the pasta water & drain when finished.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the topping (not a true sauce, but loaded with amazing flavor.) In a large skillet, saute bacon and onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the bacon is browned and starting to crisp up & the onions are browned and caramelized. (about 15 minutes)
3. Add sliced Brussels sprouts and garlic to the bacon and onions. Saute, stirring frequently until the leaves are bright green (about 3 minutes or so.)
4. Stir in white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan and stir well.
5. Add finished and drained pasta to the skillet and begin to toss with the cooked mixture. Add Parmesan cheese and about 1/2 C of the pasta water. Stir until creamy and well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

The natural sweet and nutty flavor of the Brussels sprouts was fabulous with the saltiness of the bacon and the white wine added yet another layer of flavor to this dish. I'm not telling you what to do, but this just might be a nice way to say "I love you." for Valentine's Day. You can't go wrong with an impressive homemade meal!

Happy Cooking!

sld

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