Lidia's Italy

Bacon chips are a great garnish that add flavor and texture to salads, vegetables, pastas, and especially soups. Cut bacon (about 1 slice per serving or a little less) crosswise into ¼-inch wide strips. Cook in a heavy skillet over medium heat, turning frequently, until all the fat has rendered out and the strips are dark brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, spread them out, and cover them with paper towels to blot off the fat. Drop a few chips into each soup bowl, and put more in a bowl on the table. Sprinkle the bacon overdressed salads or over pasta. I also like it crumbled on top of cooked vegetables.