# What you need:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 ounces linguine
02 - Salt for pasta water
→ Bacon & Sauce
03 - 7 ounces bacon, diced
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
06 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
08 - 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
→ Finishing Touches
09 - 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
11 - Lemon zest from 1/2 lemon
# Steps to follow:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add chopped garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
04 - Add the drained linguine directly to the skillet with the bacon. Pour in 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and toss thoroughly to coat. Add more pasta water as needed to achieve a glossy, silky sauce.
05 - Remove from heat. Add grated Parmesan and toss until melted and incorporated. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon zest. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top.
