BACON AND BRUSSELS SPROUT ORECCHIETTE

Bacon and Brussels Sprout Orecchiette image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Time 1h45m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning pasta water
1 pound orecchiette
1 pound Brussels sprouts, separated into leaves
1 pound apple wood smoked bacon, chopped
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Steps:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season generously with salt and add the pasta. Cook until just under al dente, about 9 minutes. Remove the pasta to a rimmed baking sheet using a spider, allowing it to continue cooking and cool slightly. Return the water to a boil and stir in the Brussels sprout leaves. Simmer for 30 seconds. Remove the leaves to the same tray using a spider. Cool slightly.
Add the bacon to a medium skillet and place over medium heat. Cook, stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the bacon is brown and crispy, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk the Parmesan, olive oil, vinegar, mustard and 3/4 teaspoon salt together in a large bowl. Add the slightly cooled pasta, Brussels sprouts and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Remove the crispy bacon to the bowl with a slotted spoon and toss well to coat. Sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds and toss gently if desired. Allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for 1 hour or refrigerated up to 4 hours before serving.