Creamy Fusilli with Courgettes, Saffron & Bacon Recipe

Updated at: 26/05/2025

This creamy fusilli pasta dish is a delightful fusion of vibrant flavors and textures. Imagine tender courgettes mingling with salty bacon, all bathed in a luxurious saffron-infused cream sauce. The subtle earthiness of the saffron perfectly complements the sweetness of the courgettes and the smoky richness of the bacon, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a midweek dinner or a special occasion. It's a beautiful balance of simple ingredients elevated to something truly special.

The vibrant yellow of the saffron threads adds a touch of elegance to this otherwise rustic pasta dish. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the process of making this delectable creamy fusilli with courgettes, saffron, and bacon.

Tools Needed

  • non-stick pan
  • small bowl
  • pot

Ingredients

  • courgettes: 300g
  • bacon: 150g
  • shallot: 1/2
  • oil: 2-3 tablespoons
  • salt: a pinch
  • saffron: 1 sachet
  • fusilli pasta: 400g
  • parmesan cheese: 2-3 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Cook Bacon & Courgettes

  • Remove tips, halve, and cut into cubes. [Music]
  • In a non-stick pan, heat oil and add diced bacon and finely chopped shallot. Cook over high heat until bacon is golden brown and shallot is wilted.
  • Add courgettes to the pan. Cook over high heat for 10-15 minutes without adding water, until golden brown.
  • Dissolve saffron in a ladle of hot water in a separate bowl. Set aside.
Prepare courgettes: Remove tips, halve, and cut into cubes. [Music]In a non-stick pan, heat oil and add diced bacon and finely chopped shallot. Cook over high heat until bacon is golden brown and shallot is wilted.Add courgettes to the pan. Cook over high heat for 10-15 minutes without adding water, until golden brown.Dissolve saffron in a ladle of hot water in a separate bowl. Set aside.
Prepare Ingredients and Cook Bacon & Courgettes
  • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Prepare Ingredients and Cook Bacon & Courgettes

Step 2. Combine Pasta and Saffron

  • Add cooked pasta to the pan with the courgettes. Stir in the saffron water and mix well.
Add cooked pasta to the pan with the courgettes. Stir in the saffron water and mix well.
Combine Pasta and Saffron

Step 3. Create the Creamy Sauce

  • Add parmesan cheese and mix until a creamy sauce forms. Add more pasta water if needed.
Add parmesan cheese and mix until a creamy sauce forms. Add more pasta water if needed.
Create the Creamy Sauce

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve immediately.
Serve immediately.
Serve

Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe

Tips

  • Don't add water when cooking the courgettes; this helps them brown nicely.
  • Any short pasta shape can be used instead of fusilli.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the bacon?

Yes! Pancetta or even crispy prosciutto would work well. For a vegetarian option, try adding toasted pine nuts or crispy fried halloumi.

2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?

The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming soggy.


This creamy fusilli recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined beautifully. From the vibrant colors to the delightful blend of flavors, it's a dish guaranteed to impress. Enjoy this comforting yet sophisticated pasta dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own additions!