Starting in Rome, in this late summer season, country roads are lined with prickly pear plants, their colorful fruits gleaming in the sun. They are so beautiful that they are the joy of landscape painters, while the prickly pear leaves inspire ceramists and sculptors.
Seeing a prickly pear immediately brings to mind sunshine, vacations, and carefree moments.
The prickly pear fruit is much loved, but few know that it can also be used to accompany savory dishes, such as this pasta dish of linguine and pancetta. A simple dish that offers a true taste experience and a cheerful color to the pasta.
Recipe for Linguine with Smoked Pancetta and Prickly Pears
We take the figs, wash them, and leave them under running water to prevent the many thorns from pricking us. Remember to wear oven gloves and peel the prickly pears with a knife and fork, then take the fruits and blend them to create a juice. Strain the mixture to remove the seeds, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Meanwhile, cut the smoked pancetta into strips and gently brown it in a pan.
Cook the linguine in boiling water, drain it al dente, and toss it in the pan with the pancetta over low heat. Add plenty of Parmesan cheese and the prickly pear juice, turn off the heat, and toss everything with black pepper, thyme, and basil to combine with the linguine.
To accompany this tasting experience, we could enjoy either a Chardonnay-based sparkling wine or a Barbera d'Oltre Po Pavese.
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