SUMMERY TOMATO AND BACON PASTA SALAD

Summery Tomato and Bacon Pasta Salad image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 45m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

10 slices bacon, finely chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
Kosher salt and finely ground black pepper
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 small shallot, minced
8 ounces dried orecchiette
2 cups loosely packed arugula
1 cup torn fresh basil leaves
3 medium vine-ripe tomatoes, chopped

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Put the bacon in a large, cold skillet then cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside.
Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, shallot, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl.
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool; add to the bowl with the dressing.
Add the arugula, basil and tomatoes to the bowl and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper and top with the bacon. The pasta salad is best if served right away.
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