I made this Bacon, Pea and Basil Macaroni at the weekend. My sister gave me a load of basil that she couldn't use and I needed to use up the bacon in my freezer so this seemed like the perfect meal. It was really tasty, but I think I like traditional macaroni cheese better, so if I made it again I'd use a bechamel sauce with cheese in like normal.
I am adding this to this week's Presto Pasta Nights, hosted by Janet of The Taste Space. Check out her blog on Friday for the round up.
Bacon, Pea and Basil Macaroni (Good Food Magazine July 2009)
(Serves 4)
6 rashers streaky bacon, chopped
2 leeks, finely sliced into rings
1 tbsp vegetable oil
140g frozen peas
400g macaroni
200g pack soft cheese
85g mature cheddar, grated
1 tbsp English mustard
small bunch basil, shredded
Fry the bacon and leeks in the oil for 10 mins until the bacon is golden and the leeks soft. Tip in the peas and heat through. Meanwhile, boil the pasta and heat the grill to high.
Reserve 150ml of the cooking water before you drain the pasta, then add it, the soft cheese, half the grated cheese and the mustard to the pan with the veg. Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Stir in most of the basil and the pasta, then scatter with the rest of the cheese.
Grill for 2-3 mins until the cheese melts. Scatter with basil to serve.
This looks like a great alternative to the typical mac and cheese. Thank you for your submission to PPN.
ReplyDeleteSounds fantastic. Don't you just love it when you get to use things from the freezer and especially gifts like basil. Lucky you for having such a great sister. Thanks for sharing the recipe with Presto Pasta Night.
ReplyDeleteHave fun with the kitty.
Mmm, bacon, pea and basil sounds like a winning flavor combination! How exciting that the kitty will be there soon. I hope you'll post pictures!
ReplyDeleteGreat way to use up some basil! Good luck with your cat!
ReplyDeleteSounds yummy!
ReplyDeleteThis is making my mouth water. This looks incredibly delicious!
ReplyDelete