Broccolini with Bacon

It has been a long few days. I’ve just completed the first half of the graduate program in which I am enrolled. To complicate things, I’m moving in a few days. It’s just the time for simplicity in cooking.

That said, while this dish is quite simple, it’s also quite appetizing, as it fills the kitchen with that most comforting of cooking aromas – bacon. The key here though, is to cook the bacon slowly so that it crisps without browning the pan. Broccolini is packed with vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and folate. This dish makes a great side for a lighter main.

Broccolini with Bacon – serves 2 – 4

3 oz. bacon (about 4 slices, depending on the cut)
1 lb. broccolini, chopped into 1 – 2 inch pieces

Slice the bacon into small strips, about a 1/4″ by 1″. Cook in a frying pan over low to medium-low heat for about 25 -30 minutes (I know. It’s a long time.) until the fat is melted down and the pieces are crisp.

Remove the bacon and drain the fat. Frugal tip: Save the fat and use in other cooking applications, like frying eggs.

Add the broccolini to the pan, cover and raise the heat to medium. Cook 5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Toss with the bacon. Serve.