FRIED CABBAGE WITH BACON, ONION, AND GARLIC

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

1. Make the Tomato Sauce: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Add the Crispy Bacon: Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss to distribute throughout the pasta.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle over their servings as desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spiciness: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.

This dish is a wonderful combination of savory bacon, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic, all brought together with a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home and is sure to please both family and friends. Enjoy your cooking!