Lemon Basil Pasta

Put the bacon pieces into a skillet over medium heat and cook until crisp. Drain off the grease and set bacon aside on a paper towel.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions for al dente. When it’s done, reserve 1 cup of the hot pasta water. Then drain the pasta. Add the olive oil to prevent sticking and toss to coat the noodles. Set pasta aside.

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook 3-4 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and whisk to combine. Add the half-and-half to the pot. Whisk until hot, then add in the Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, and the lemon zest if desired.

Check the consistency of the sauce. If it’s too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen. Stir in nearly all of the basil, reserving some for garnish. Stir in the bacon. Add the pasta to the pot and toss to coat with the sauce.

Serve in a heated bowl, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese.