I didn’t actually expect anything to come up when I googled “Cauliflower Pasta”. I’ve never had cauliflower in pasta before nor have I ever even seen cauliflower pasta, but I was grasping for straws trying to come up with something to eat based on the ingredients we had on hand. Real Simple magazine came to the rescue with this pasta recipe that came together in a flash. With only a handful of ingredients, I managed to have them all in my rather empty refrigerator and pantry. I was a little concerned it would be too boring of a dish, but Ryan and I both liked it. The best part was definitely the cheese, and I’m pretty sure I added more than the 3/4 cup it called for…I recommend you don’t skimp either! (Note–I also added some yellow squash I had on hand, which you might see in the picture. I just sauteed it before adding the cauliflower)

Pasta with Bacon and Cauliflower

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Author: Natalie McLaury
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A quick and flavorful pasta dish combining crispy bacon, tender cauliflower, and savory parmesan cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

12 oz. spaghetti (I used whole wheat)
6 slices bacon
1/3 cup fresh sage leaves
1 small head cauliflower (1 1/2 lbs), cut into small florets
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Optional: 1 yellow squash, sliced

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 3/4 cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Add the sage leaves to the bacon fat in the skillet and cook until crisp, about 1 minute. Transfer to the plate with the bacon.
If using, sauté the yellow squash in the skillet until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Add the cauliflower to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked spaghetti, reserved cooking water, bacon, sage, and parmesan cheese to the skillet with the cauliflower. Toss to combine and heat through, about 2 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Feel free to add extra cheese for more flavor. You can also include other vegetables like yellow squash for added texture and color. This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian