Pasta with slices of raw ham

Pasta with Raw Ham and Cheese: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for pasta with raw ham and cheese, a dish that combines the intense flavor of the ingredients with the simplicity of home cooking. This recipe is not only quick but will also bring you joy in every bite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The story behind the recipe

Pasta is a staple food in many culinary cultures, with a long tradition dating back thousands of years. This simple recipe for pasta with raw ham and cheese was inspired by the quick and tasty dishes our grandmothers prepared on busy evenings. With accessible ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal with friends.

Ingredients

- 2 bags of pasta (homemade wide noodles, approximately 400 g)
- 400 g slices of raw ham (preferably of high quality)
- 200 ml cream for pasta (Grand Cucina type)
- 200 ml heavy cream (15% fat)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 heads of garlic
- 700 g Rucar cheese (or your favorite cheese with a strong flavor)

Step by Step

1. Boiling the pasta
Start by putting a large pot of water to boil. Add a pinch of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-12 minutes for homemade wide noodles).

2. Preparing the ingredients
Meanwhile, cut the slices of raw ham into pieces of about 1 cm. Grate the cheese using a fine grater. The garlic can be finely chopped or crushed, depending on your preference.

3. Sautéing the ham and garlic
In a large skillet, add a few drops of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and ham, frying until the ham becomes slightly crispy and the garlic releases its aroma (about 3-5 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

4. Mixing the pasta with the ham
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet over the ham and sautéed garlic. Add half of the grated cheese and mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Preparing the cream sauce
In the same skillet or another, add half a tablespoon of olive oil and the cream for pasta. Mix well, then add the remaining cheese. When the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy, pour it over the pasta with ham and mix well.

6. Serving
Divide the pasta into plates and, if desired, garnish with a little extra cheese on top. You can also add some freshly ground pepper or herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing ingredients: Opt for high-quality raw ham, as the taste of this ingredient will significantly influence the dish. Rucar cheese is an excellent choice, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, to slightly change the flavor profile.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to enrich the recipe and bring in more nutrients. You can also replace the cream with a light version or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Serving: This pasta pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. A simple green salad on the side will also complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This pasta is rich in complex carbohydrates from the noodles, with a good protein content from the ham and cheese. The cream adds a source of healthy fats, and garlic offers immune benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent alternative, providing more fiber and a more pronounced flavor.

- How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a bit of chopped hot pepper or chili flakes to the cream sauce for a spicy kick.

- What can I do with leftovers?
If you have leftover pasta, you can store it in the refrigerator and reheat it the next day. You can also make pasta fritters by adding an egg and breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Pasta with raw ham and cheese is an excellent choice for a quick yet delicious meal. This simple recipe can be easily adapted according to tastes and preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a tasty dinner! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 2 bags of pasta (wide homemade noodles) 400 g slices of ham, Grand Cucina (cream for pasta) 15% fat cream, olive oil, 3 heads of garlic, 700 g Rucar cheese

 Tags:  ham pasta pasta with cheese