Asparagus Pasta

1: Boil water in a large pot and add salt once boiling.

2: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.

3: Cook 6 pieces of bacon, then remove from heat and excess grease.

4: Add a splash of olive oil, diced asparagus, salt, pepper, and chili flakes; cook for 5 minutes.

5: Chop bacon and return it to the pan along with 3 minced garlic cloves; cook for an additional minute.

6: Drain the noodles and add them back to the pot with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, splash of pasta water, as well as bacon and asparagus mixture.

7: Toss everything for several minutes and serve with cracked black pepper.