PASTA WITH BEANS, BROCCOLI & BACON

PASTA WITH BEANS, BROCCOLI & BACON image

Provided by Ellen Bales

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 slice bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick strips
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
2 clove garlic, finely chopped
2 c rough-chopped broccoli florets
1/4 to 1/2 c chicken stock
1 c cooked cannellini beans
1/2 lb penne or rigatoni pasta
1/4 to 1/2 tsp dried red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1/4 c toasted bread crumbs
1/4 c freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Steps:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is brown and beginning to crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove to a paper towel to drain. Pour most of the bacon fat from the pan, add the 2 Tbsp. olive oil, and warm over medium heat. Saute the garlic until soft, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli and saute until coated and beginning to wilt. Add 1/4 cup of the chicken stock, stirring and scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan. Cover partially and cook, stirring occasionally, and adding more chicken stock if needed, for about 10 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
3. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package directions, until it is al dente. Drain but don't rinse.
4. When the broccoli is cooked, add pasta, beans, and reserved bacon. Add the red pepper flakes, if desired, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss well.
5. Remove from heat; add bread crumbs and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Toss gently and serve in warmed bowls. Drizzle each bowl with olive oil, Parmesan and freshly ground pepper. Serve with some crusty bread and a lettuce salad.