In this dish, the ricotta cheese melts to become the thick, creamy sauce.
CREAMY PENNE with CORN and BACON
Serves: 4 Difficulty Level: 1 (of 5) Prep Time: 15 Minutes Ready In: Less than an hour
INGREDIENTS:
•8 oz. penne (tube-shaped pasta)
•8 oz. bacon, coarsely chopped
•2 1/4 cups corn kernels (2 to 3 ears corn)
•2 garlic cloves, minced
•1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
•1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
•1/2 cup packed chopped fresh basil, divided
•1/2 teaspoon pepper
PROCEDURE:
•Cook penne according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
•Return penne to pot.
•Cook bacon in large nonstick skillet over medium-high to medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until almost crispy.
•Remove and discard excess drippings.
•Add corn; cook 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
•Add garlic; cook and stir 30 seconds or until fragrant.
•Stir ricotta and 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water into penne
•Cook over medium heat 1 to 2 minutes or until hot.
•Stir in bacon mixture, Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of the basil and pepper, adding additional pasta water if pasta seems dry.
•Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup basil.
Enjoy
Chef Phil
Served with a side salad this makes for a great tasting Italian style meal.
