Summer Corn Fettuccine

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat a large pot of water to boil for the pasta. Salt the water and cook the pasta to al dente.

   Step 2

   Meanwhile, heat a large skillet with a drizzle of EVOO over medium to medium-high heat. Add the bacon to the pan and cook for a few minutes to crisp the bacon and render its fat. Place a small bowl inverted in a large bowl, steady the corn cobs on the smaller bowl, and scrape the kernels off the ears. Add three quarters of the kernels and liquids to the bacon. Add the shallots and bell pepper to the corn mixture and season liberally with salt and pepper. Cook until tender, 5 to 6 minutes.

   Step 3

   Add the remaining corn to the food processor and puree with the cream.

   Step 4

   Stir in the thyme and the stock or wine into the corn mixture in the skillet, reduce for a minute, then stir in the corn-cream mixture. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, to thicken. Add the hot sauce or cayenne pepper and adjust the salt and pepper.

   Step 5

   Drain the pasta, then toss with the sauce, parsley, and a couple handfuls of cheese, about 1/2 cup. Top with the basil or tarragon and pass the remaining cheese at the table.