Straw and Hay Pasta

Aired on: November 10, 2009

Brussels sprouts and pancetta make this a meal-in-one!

Ingredients

1/2 pound spinach fettuccine
Salt
3 tablespoons butter
1/8 inch thick sliced prosciutto or pancetta, finely diced or 1/4 pound package of pre-cubed prosciutto or pancetta, such as Citterio brand
3/4 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or 1 shallot, finely chopped
3 to 4 sprigs fresh sage, thinly sliced
A few grates fresh nutmeg
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, a few handfuls

Yields: 4 servings

Preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil for pasta, salt water and cook fettuccine to al dente. Heads up: Compare the cook times on each box to stagger the addition of pastas if necessary to boiling water and reserve 1 cup starchy cooking liquids just before draining.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the butter and melt, add the prosciutto or pancetta and brown 2-3 minutes. Add the sprouts and sauté 3-4 minutes, add garlic or shallot and sage, and toss 2 minutes more. Season with salt, pepper and a little nutmeg.

Drain pasta and add reserved cooking liquid to sprouts. Toss with pasta and cheese, adjust seasonings and serve.