Classic Creamy Bacon Lardon Pasta Primavera

When boiling, add the rigatoni to the water and bring back to the boil. Cook until tender, 12 mins.

Once cooked, drain in a colander and pop back in the pan. Drizzle with oil and stir through to stop it sticking together.

Meanwhile, melt the butter (see pantry for amount) with a drizzle of oil in a large frying pan on medium-high heat.

Once hot, add the bacon lardons and sliced leek and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the bacon is golden, 4-6 mins, stirring occasionally. IMPORTANT: Wash your hands and equipment after handling raw meat. Cook bacon thoroughly. Add the garlic and cook for 1 min.

Next, stir in the veg stock paste and water for the sauce (see pantry for amount). Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer until slightly reduced, 2-3 mins.

Meanwhile, zest and cut the lemon into wedges. Pick the tarragon leaves from their stalks and finely chop (discard the stalks).

In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest and half the tarragon. Set your gremolata aside. 

Once the water has reduced, stir the creme fraiche and peas into the leek pan. Simmer until the sauce is thickened and piping hot, 1-2 mins. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.

Remove the pan from the heat, stir through the cheese and remaining tarragon. 

Season with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon from a lemon wedge. Add a splash more water if needed.