Cauliflower Pasta

Instructions

1. Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until crisp, about 8 minutes. Stir in the Panko and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until Panko is deep, dark golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the Panko-bacon mixture to a bowl. Let cool, then toss with 2 tablespoons Parmesan. Set aside.
2. With a damp paper towel, carefully wipe the skillet clean. Return the skillet to the heat, increase the heat to medium-high, and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cauliflower, onion, and 1 teaspoon salt. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is tender and has begun to brown in spots, about 15 minutes. If at any point the onion starts to stick, drizzle in additional oil as needed.
3. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and red pepper and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds. With a large spoon, scoop the vegetables onto a large plate and cover to keep warm.
4. Return the pot to the heat. Add 5 cups of the broth and increase the heat to high. Once simmering, add the pasta and adjust the heat so that it comes to a gentle boil. As soon as it begins to boil, cook, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid is absorbed and pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes. If at any point the pasta seems dry, add in some of the remaining broth to loosen it back up. If using, stir in the peas and let cook just long enough to warm them through, about 30 seconds.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the parsley, lemon juice, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and cauliflower mixture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Divide the pasta between serving plates and sprinkle the bacon breadcrumbs generously over the top. Enjoy!