Bacon, Spinach and Goat Cheese Pasta

Are you looking for the perfect meal that is quick to put together and tastes delicious?  Well look no further; this bacon, spinach and goat cheese pasta is the answer to your search.  This pasta was so easy to prepare, it was prepared in absolutely no time and is the perfect crowd pleaser. 

I love the taste of goat cheese but I’ve never cooked with it.  I don’t really have an answer as to why this is the first recipe I’ve made that involves goat cheese but it is and I’m so happy I came across it.  The combination of flavors is delicious; the goat cheese has a tarteness and sharpness to it that is unlike no others and it’s so smooth and creamy it literally melts in your mouth.  Add this to the combination of lemon, pepper, bacon and spinach and it’s the finished product is nothing but delicious.  Spencer was a huge fan and even Tucker couldn’t get enough; he ate this not only the night I originally cooked it but also for leftovers until he finished the dish.  This is perfect for weeknight meals, as well as a meal that’s a little lighter but very filling.  This will be on our menu again very soon.

Bacon, Spinach and Goat Cheese Pasta

Ingredients:


1/2 Pound, small cut pasta
4-6 Slices thick center cut bacon
3 Cups fresh spinach
2 1/2 Oz soft goat cheese, crumbled
2 Tsp olive oil
1/2 Tsp lemon zest
1 Pinch crushed red pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:


Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt and add pasta.  Cook pasta according to instructions on package.

While the pasta is boiling, cook bacon and place on a papertowel lined plate.  When cool enough to handle, roughly chop and set aside.

Once the pasta has finished cooking, drain and return to the same pot.  Place the spinach in the pot with the pasta and cover for 1 minute.  Add the crumbled goat cheese, olive oil, lemon zest, red pepper, salt and pepper and mix together.  Stir ingredients until the goat cheese has melted, add the bacon and toss to combine. 

*Reserve a little pasta water to help the the cheese stick to the pasta a little better.

Serve immediately with garlic bread or jalapeno cheddar rolls.

Recipe source: Lemons & Love food blog, originally from Alexa