Cook the Book: BLT Bucatini

Ingredients

• 8 ounces arugula coarsely chopped
• 1 pound bucatini pasta dried
• 1.5 pounds cherry tomatoes with some of their juices coarsely chopped (see Note)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin extra-virgin
• 8 ounces pancetta sliced cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 0.5 cup pecorino cheese shredded

Equipment

• bowl
• frying pan
• baking sheet
• oven
• pot
• colander

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and salt generously.
2. While the water is heating, warm the olive oil in a large frying pan placed over medium heat.
3. Add the pancetta and sauté, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pancetta begins to render its fat and turn somewhat crispy. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes are heated through. Turn off the heat and cover the sauce to keep it warm.
4. Add the pasta to the boiling water, stir to separate the noodles, and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until al dente.
5. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander set in the sink, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking water.
6. Transfer the pasta to the frying pan and gently toss the pasta and sauce to combine thoroughly, adding a splash or two of the cooking water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
7. Add the arugula by the handful and continue to toss for a minute or so, or until the arugula is just wilted.
8. Transfer the dressed pasta to shallow individual bowls and sprinkle the cheese over the top.
9. Serve immediately.
10. Note: To make slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, heat the oven to 275°F.
11. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and arrange them in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet/tray.
12. Drizzle 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil over the tomatoes, then scatter 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, over the tomatoes. Season with kosher or fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast for 2 to 3 hours, or until the tomatoes have collapsed and shriveled a little but are still moist.
13. Let cool and use immediately, or store in a tightly lidded container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before using.