Pasta (spirals) with smoked ham sauce
Spiral Pasta with Smoked Bacon Sauce - a Quick and Delicious Recipe
Welcome to the savory world of pasta! Today, I will guide you step by step in creating a recipe for spiral pasta with smoked bacon sauce, a simple yet flavorful and personal dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner but sophisticated enough to impress your guests. Let's get started!
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 300 g spiral pasta
- 200 g smoked bacon (cubes)
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 1 carrot
- 250 ml tomato paste
- Spices to taste (vegetable seasoning, pepper, rosemary, oregano, basil)
- 50 g grated Italian parmesan
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation:
1. Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot with 1.5 liters of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of salt. Salt is essential as it helps enhance the flavor of the pasta. Once the water starts boiling, add the spiral pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually between 5 and 7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
2. Prepare the sauce
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the smoked bacon cubes and fry them for 2-3 minutes until crispy and fragrant. This bacon will not only add a unique flavor to the sauce but also a wonderful texture.
3. Add the vegetables
Peel the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Chop the onion finely, dice the carrot, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Add the onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell pepper, continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally and watch that the bacon doesn’t burn.
4. Flavor the sauce
When the vegetables have softened, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. Now is the perfect time to add your favorite spices. I recommend a combination of vegetable seasoning, pepper, rosemary, oregano, and basil to enhance the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust the spices to your liking.
5. Combine the pasta with the sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Mix everything well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Let it all cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Serve and garnish
Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated parmesan on top. A garnish of fresh basil or chopped parsley can add a touch of freshness and color.
Useful tips:
- Choose quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, for better texture.
- Smoked bacon can be replaced with regular bacon or ham, and for a vegetarian option, use smoked mushrooms.
- For extra flavor, add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce.
Nutritional benefits:
This pasta recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. The smoked bacon provides protein, while the vegetables add vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthier choice, rich in fiber.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of chili or hot pepper sauce for a more intense flavor.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with the pasta before consuming.
Ideal pairings:
This spiral pasta with smoked bacon sauce pairs perfectly with an arugula salad with parmesan and lemon or a bottle of dry white wine. Additionally, a simple dessert like vanilla ice cream with fruit sauce can complete a perfect dinner.
This recipe is not just a simple dish but a culinary experience that brings together rich flavors and diverse textures. Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, I am sure it will quickly become everyone's favorite. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300 g pasta (spirals) 200 g smoked ham (cubes) 1 medium onion 1/2 bell pepper 1 carrot 250 ml tomato paste spices (vegetable mix, pepper, rosemary, oregano, basil) grated Italian parmesan
