Kohlrabi and Bacon Pasta

• streaky bacon↗200g g
• dry pasta↗300g g
• kohlrabi↗1

  cut into large florets

• butter↗25g g
• plain flour↗25g g
• milk↗300ml ml
• Dijon mustard↗1 tsp
• cheddar↗140g g

  grated

• soft wholegrain roll1

  turned into breadcrumbs

• salad↗

  for serving (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the grill to high heat and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Fry the bacon slices for 5 minutes or until crispy, then drain on a paper towel and chop into small pieces.

2. 2

   Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Add the kohlrabi to the pot with the pasta 8 minutes before it is done, so it becomes just tender, then drain, reserving 2 tbsp of the cooking water.

3. 3

   Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the flour and cook for a few minutes. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring well after each addition. Bring to a gentle boil and cook a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Season, add Dijon mustard and half of the grated cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

4. 4

   Return the pasta and kohlrabi to the pot, add the reserved cooking water. Mix with the cheese sauce and bacon, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese and sprinkle over the top of the pasta. Bake for 5 minutes under the grill until golden brown. Serve with salad, if desired.