Spaghetti with cream sauce and ham
Spaghetti with cream and ham sauce - a simple and quick delight
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Who doesn't love a steaming plate of spaghetti? This spaghetti recipe with cream and ham sauce is perfect for busy days when you want to whip up something delicious and comforting without too much effort. The creamy cream sauce, combined with salty ham, transforms this classic dish into a true culinary feast.
Let's dive into this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
- 500 g Barilla spaghetti
- 500 ml cooking cream (preferably with a fat content of 30% for a creamy texture)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 150 g ham (preferably smoked for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g grated cheese (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
Useful tools
- A deep frying pan
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A zester for lemon zest (if you don't have one, a fine grater will work too)
Step-by-step preparation
1. Boiling the spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt (about 1 tablespoon for each liter of water) and the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes for a perfect al dente texture. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the sauce:
While the spaghetti is boiling, prepare the sauce. In a deep frying pan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the cooking cream and grated lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
3. Adding the ham:
Cut the ham into thin strips and add it to the sauce. Stir well so that the ham absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Finishing the dish:
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it to the frying pan with the cream and ham sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the grated cheese and stir until it melts and blends in.
5. Serving:
Serve the spaghetti immediately, preferably with a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper and, if desired, a little chopped fresh parsley on top.
Useful tips
- Choosing ingredients: Opt for the best quality cream, as it is the key ingredient that determines the texture and flavor of the sauce.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or fresh vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or freshly made lemonade.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted with any type of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne.
2. How can I make the sauce even more flavorful?
Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra touch of freshness.
3. What are the nutritional benefits?
This recipe offers carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham, and calcium from the cream and cheese. It is a balanced meal, perfect for maintaining energy throughout the day.
4. Can I prepare it in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them before serving.
A personal note
I fondly remember family evenings when we all gathered around the table to enjoy this spaghetti with cream and ham sauce. The enticing aroma and the joy of sharing a delicious meal brought us together more than anything else. This recipe is not just a simple meal, but an experience that brings people together.
In conclusion, spaghetti with cream and ham sauce is an excellent choice for a quick, flavorful dinner. Don't forget to experiment and adapt the recipe to your personal preferences - cooking is about expressing yourself and enjoying every moment spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: - 500 g Barilla spaghetti - 500 ml cooking cream - 2 tablespoons butter - 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest - 150 g ham - 100 g grated cheese - Salt, pepper
Tags: pasta with sauce quick spaghetti sauce for spaghetti philips multicooker recipes
