I came across the basis for this recipe in 150 Best Meals In A Jar, on page 73.
I adapted the recipe to make enough for the family. The book has a great concept, especially since most of the recipes make 1 serving. However, if I am going to cook, with our family size, I am going to make enough for everyone and for later meals. The salad was delicious, a deconstructed cold carbonara. And a satisfying large portion, it isn’t lunch, it’s dinner worthy!
Pasta Carbonara Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 package uncured bacon
- 8 large eggs
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- ½ cup olive oil + extra
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounce package mesclun*
Directions:
Heat oven to 400°. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Lay bacon slice on it, preferably without touching.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until crispy and fully baked. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate, blot with towels. Let cool, then crumble up.
Add the eggs to a medium saucepan, cover with cool water. Put on stove, cover with lid and bring to a boil. Take off heat, let sit covered for 15 minutes. Drain, rinse with cool water until cooled enough to handle. Peel each egg, then chop.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in pasta, cook for time on package. Drain well, then toss gently with a bit of extra olive oil to avoid sticking. Let cool, tossing as needed to help it air out.
In 4 quart wide mouth mason jars, add in 2 Tablespoons oil and 1 Tablespoon vinegar to each jar. Add in ¼ of the eggs, then ¼ of the Parmesan cheese, and ¼ of the crumbled bacon. Divide the pasta between the jars, pushing down gently to fit it, and to leave room for the greens.
Add in the greens, dividing between the jars, pushing down gently.
Seal each jar, store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
To serve, turn out into a large bowl and toss gently with a fork to combine.
Serves 4 large portions.
* Mesclun is basically a mix of small salad greens. Use what you can find, it may not be marked that, so look for “baby” or “young” salad mix.
FTC Disclaimer: We received a review copy of the book.