Pasta salad with pears, bacon, and walnuts
- Lactose Free
- Energy Kcal 686
- Carbohydrates g 63.3
- of which sugars g 13
- Protein g 23.5
- Fats g 37.6
- of which saturated fat g 9.78
- Fiber g 12.7
- Cholesterol mg 34
- Sodium mg 987
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Prep time: 15 min
- Cook time: 15 min
- Serving: 4
- Cost: Low
PRESENTATION
If you're on the hunt for a refreshing twist on pasta salad, look no further. This mix of pear, pancetta, and walnuts is seriously good. You get sweet pears and crispy pancetta, offering a burst of flavor that's a step up from the usual Italian pasta salad. Really, the addition of crunchy walnuts and a sprinkle of fresh thyme, combined with tender shavings of pecorino cheese, makes this walnut pasta salad a real standout. Perfect for a weekend gathering—or even a quick weekday meal—it shows how a few quality ingredients can create something really special.
In Italy, pasta salad variations are as diverse as the regions themselves. And each area uses local ingredients to craft unique dishes. This particular blend of smoky pancetta and sweet pears achieves a wonderful harmony between savory and fruity flavors. It’s a go-to for picnics. Or a convenient lunch since it holds up well when cold. Plus, it becomes even richer as the flavors meld together.
The pear pasta salad captures the aromatic core of thyme and the nutty crunch of walnuts—making each bite really engaging. Whether you’re a fan of a classic cold pasta salad or looking to explore new pasta salad ingredients, this recipe offers a delicious way to shake things up. And the simple pasta salad dressing, with bold Italian flavors, ensures this dish is a crowd-pleaser any time of year.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, this pasta salad is a great way to play with textures and tastes. The smoky notes of pancetta paired with the natural sweetness of pears provide a satisfying contrast. Plus, the walnuts add a layer of crunchy depth. Pecorino cheese—a staple in many Italian dishes—enhances the overall flavor with its subtle saltiness. And you know, this recipe not only shows the traditional elements of Italian cooking but also makes you want to enjoy a colorful and versatile meal that fits perfectly into any season. For real.
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- INGREDIENTS
- Whole wheat Penne Rigate pasta 13.4 oz (380 g)
- Pears 3 cups (400 g)
- Smoked pancetta 3.5 oz (100 g)
- Walnut kernels 1.8 oz (50 g)
- Fine salt to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Thyme 1 sprig
- Red pepper to taste
- Pecorino cheese 3.5 oz (100 g) - sweet, medium-aged
How to prepare Pasta salad with pears, bacon, and walnuts
To prepare the pasta salad with pears, bacon, and walnuts, you can first start cooking the pasta 1. Meanwhile, cut the bacon into slices, then into strips 3,
sear it in a non-stick pan for about 3 minutes over high heat (without adding extra fats) and once it's ready, when it becomes nice and crispy, place it on a tray lined with paper towels 5. Then wash the pears and cut them in half first 6,
then core them and, without peeling, cut them into wedges, and finally into cubes 7. Roughly chop the walnuts 9 and once the pasta is al dente, drain it and transfer it into a large bowl. Pour in a tablespoon of oil 9 and mix so that the pasta doesn't stick together as it cools. Let it cool down.
Once it is cold, add the pears 10, chopped thyme 11, and a sprinkle of pink pepper 12.
Salt to taste 13, then also add the crispy bacon and chopped walnut kernels 14. Finally, cut the Pecorino into chunks 15
and add it to the bowl with the pasta 16 along with all the dressing. Mix well so that all the ingredients are combined 17 and your pasta salad with pears, bacon, and walnuts will be ready to serve! 18