PASTA,CABBAGE.BACON.BEANS M

Pasta With Cannellini Beans, Cabbage and BaconBy Stephanie Witt SedgwickWashington PostTuesday, March 25, 2014 (Published in print: Wednesday, March 26, 2014)Beans and bacon are a classic combination. Here they join with pasta and Napa cabbage to make a rustic dish that comes together in 20 minutes. This is also a great example of how a little bit of bacon goes a long way.The bacon is a key seasoning ingredient, so choose a brand with a deep, smoky flavor.Pasta With Cannellini Beans, Cabbage and Bacon8 ounces dried pasta, preferably campanelle, shells or orecchiette4 ounces apple wood smoked bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces3/4 cup finely diced red onion11/2 cups no-salt-added cannellini beans (if using canned, drain and rinse them)6 ounces Napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch-by-1/2-inch strips3/4 cup homemade or no-salt-added chicken brothkosher saltfreshly ground black pepperextra-virgin olive oil, for garnish (optional)grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for garnish (optional)Cook the pasta according to the package directions.Meanwhile, heat a large nonstick braising pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon; cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes, until some of the baconÕs fat is rendered. Add the onion; cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion softens and the bacon starts to brown around the edges.Add the beans, cabbage and broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper, stirring to incorporate. Cover; once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring once or twice, for 5 to 7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. Taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove from the heat.Drain the pasta; add it to the bean and cabbage mixture, stirring to incorporate.Serve warm, drizzled with a little oil, if desired. Pass the cheese and a black-pepper grinder at the table, if desired.Makes 4 servings.Source URL:http://www.concordmonitor.com/home/11303186-95/pasta-with-cannellini-beans-cabbage-and-bacon