Tony Mantuano'S Pea, Bacon And Pecorino Recipe

1. 1

   Add bacon to a large skillet set of medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until bacon is crisp but still chewy, about five minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Measure out 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat and transfer to a large bowl. Discard the rest of the fat.

2. 2

   Pour 1/3 cup of the olive oil into the large skillet set over medium-high heat. When oil starts to shimmer, add the bread cubes. Cook, stirring very often, until golden brown, four to five minutes. Remove bread crumbs with a slotted spoon and drain on some paper towels.

3. 3

   Bring a medium-sized saucepan of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. While that warms up, set out a medium-sized bowl of ice water. When water in the saucepan comes to a boil, add the peas and the snap peas, and cook for 30 seconds. Drain in a colander when done, and then transfer the peas and snap peas to the ice water. When completely cool, drain them both well.

4. 4

   In the same large bowl as the bacon fat, add the peas, snap peas, pea shoots, pea sprouts (if using), croutons, lemon juice, and remaining two tablespoons of olive oil. Toss well. Divide the salad between two plates and garnish with the cooked bacon and the shavings of Pecorino.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.