Salad with ham, pasta, and spinach

Delicious pasta salad with ham and spinach: an easy-to-make recipe, perfect for quick lunches or relaxing dinners!

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover a pasta salad recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked ham, the freshness of spinach, and the creamy texture of mayonnaise. This salad is not only a culinary delight but also a nutritious option, packed with vitamins and minerals. Ideal for warm summer days or festive meals, this salad is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

- 200 g rigatoni or any type of tubular pasta
- 200 g cleaned spinach leaves
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (you can also make a homemade garlic-free mayonnaise if you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1/2 bunch fresh dill, finely chopped
- 200 g smoked country ham, diced
- 200 g smoked cheese or cheese substitute
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Cooking the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the ingredients: Meanwhile, wash the spinach leaves well under cold running water, then drain them. Dice the ham and cheese into suitable cubes, and finely chop the dill.

3. Making the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and creamy dressing.

4. Cooling the pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain it well and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. If you prefer, you can run it under cold water to speed up the cooling process.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the mayonnaise dressing and gently mix until the pasta is completely coated in the dressing.

6. Adding the ham and cheese: Cover the bowl and let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to infuse the flavors. After this time, add the diced ham and cheese, mixing carefully to avoid breaking the texture.

7. Preparing the spinach: Now you have two options for adding the spinach: either tear it into large pieces and add it directly to the salad, or use it as a garnish around the serving dishes.

Serving suggestions: This salad can be served as is or alongside a slice of fresh bread. You can also add a few lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness.

Variations and useful tips:
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with smoked tofu or sautéed vegetables.
- Experiment with different types of pasta: penne or fusilli are also excellent in this recipe.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add a tablespoon of mustard to the mayonnaise dressing.

Nutritional information: This salad is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, thanks to its varied ingredients. Consuming spinach provides a significant intake of iron and antioxidants, while the ham and cheese contribute essential proteins and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Maintaining nutritional values is important, and whole grain pasta can add extra fiber and nutrients.
- How can I make mayonnaise at home? Mix an egg yolk with oil gradually and add a little mustard, vinegar, and salt. Blend well until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Can it be prepared a day in advance? Yes, this salad keeps well in the refrigerator, and the flavors become even more intense after a night of resting.

Whether you serve it at a family meal or at a gathering with friends, this pasta salad with ham and spinach is sure to impress with its rich taste and pleasant texture. Try it and share your impressions!

 Ingredients: 200 g rigatoni or any type of tubular pasta, 200 g cleaned spinach leaves, 2 medium tomatoes, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 4 tablespoons sour cream, 1/2 bunch of dill, 200 g smoked country ham, 200 g smoked cheese, salt, pepper

 Tags:  pasta salad spinach salad