Creamy Goat Cheese and Honey Linguine with Bacon

Ingredients

• 400 g linguine
• 150 g bacon (Diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (Finely minced)
• 150 g soft goat cheese (Crumble or cut into small pieces so it melts easily)
• 2 tbsp honey (Plus more for drizzling, if desired)
• 240 ml reserved pasta water (Reserve before draining; use as needed to loosen the sauce)
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (For cooking, if the bacon does not render enough fat)
• fine salt (For the pasta water and seasoning, to taste)
• black pepper (Freshly ground, to taste)

Steps

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the linguine according to the package directions until al dente, stirring during the first minute so the strands do not stick together.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, place the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp and the fat has rendered. If the pan is very dry, add the olive oil.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic to the bacon and rendered fat. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant; do not let the garlic brown.

4. 4

   Before draining the linguine, scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta, then add it directly to the skillet with the bacon.

5. 5

   Add the goat cheese and honey to the hot linguine. Toss continuously while adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time, until the cheese melts into a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the noodles. Use only as much water as needed for a creamy consistency.

6. 6

   Taste and season with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt only if needed, remembering that the bacon and pasta water are already salty.

7. 7

   Divide the linguine among four bowls. Finish with an optional light drizzle of honey and a final grind of black pepper, then serve immediately.

Notes

The source description identifies goat cheese, honey, bacon, and linguine but does not provide the cookbook's exact ingredient quantities or full method. The quantities and garlic, olive oil, and seasoning are informed estimates reconstructed from the dish description. Goat cheese sauces are best served immediately; loosen leftovers with a splash of hot water when reheating.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• pasta
• Italian-inspired
• quick meal
• creamy
• sweet-savory
• bacon