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Pasta with Spicy Brussels Sprouts and Pancetta

This pasta dish is a quick and easy weeknight favorite! Pasta is combined with shaved Brussels sprouts that get crispy in the pan with pancetta, a kick from some cayenne and some salty savory parmesan cheese shavings.
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
  • 3 ounces pancetta diced
  • 4 sprigs rosemary chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jalapeno minced
  • black pepper ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1 cup brussels sprouts thinly sliced (or shaved with a mandolin)
  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for serving
  • 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until just al dente (do not overcook or it will get mushy).
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large sauté pan over medium high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the pancetta and rosemary, and sauté for a few minutes until the pancetta starts to brown.
  3. Add the garlic, jalapeno, black pepper to taste, and cayenne and sauté until garlic and pancetta turn golden brown, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the Brussels sprouts and sauté until they just start to soften, about 2 minutes. Spread sprouts mixture in pan and press down to flatten. Let it sear for a minute, then stir it up and repeat (this helps brown the sprouts).
  5. Add the pasta and butter, toss to combine and sauté for another minute.
  6. Serve in bowls topped with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice, and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.