Penne in a courgette sauce

Method

• step 1

  Slice the courgette into slices - about the width of your finger. Finely slice the gardlic and add them to a large pan with the butter and oil. Place over a medium heat and cook gently for 15-20 minutes. If the courgette starts to brown too much, turn the heat down.

• step 2

  Once the courgette is soft, remove from the heat and set aside. Cook the bacon until crispy and golden, then chop into pieces. Boil a pan of salted water and add the pasta - cook following packet instructions.

• step 3

  While the pasta is cooking, put the courgette pan back over a gentle heat. Using the back of a wooden spoon, squash and mash the courgettes into a rough puree. Turn the heat off and beat in the cheese and creme fraiche until smooth. Stir in the bacon and season with pepper.

• step 4

  Drain the pasta once cooked and tip into the pan with the sauce. Put back over a very gentle heat and stir until the pasta is coated. Transfer to warmed bowls or plates and serve with more Parmesan.