Spaghetti with ham, tomato sauce, and basil
Spaghetti with ham, tomato sauce, and basil – a delicious and quick recipe for those moments when the craving for pasta strikes. This simple and comforting dish combines the flavors of a fresh tomato sauce with the savory texture of ham and the freshness of basil. Get ready to bring a dish to your table that will delight not only the taste buds but also the eyes of your loved ones.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 300 g ham (or minced meat, as preferred)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 400-500 ml tomato juice (preferably freshly made or from quality canned tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh green basil (a few leaves for the sauce and a bit for garnish)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion and red bell pepper. Grate the carrot and cut the ham into small cubes. If using minced meat, ensure it is of good quality.
2. Heating the wok:
Heat the wok over medium heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Wait a few seconds until it heats up well, but be careful not to let it smoke.
3. Sautéing the vegetables:
Add the onion and red bell pepper to the wok and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and cut ham, continuing to sauté everything for another 5-7 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
4. Preparing the sauce:
Once the vegetables have softened, pour the tomato juice into the wok. Add salt, pepper, minced garlic, and green basil. If you want a thicker sauce, incorporate the tablespoon of flour as well. Mix everything well and let it simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become a delicious combination of flavors.
5. Boiling the spaghetti:
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. Assembling the dish:
Add the cooked spaghetti to a large bowl, drizzling with a little oil to prevent sticking. Pour the tomato sauce with ham over the pasta and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
7. Serving:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil. You can also add grated Parmesan for extra flavor if you like.
Helpful tip
If you have time, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice. Chop a few tomatoes and add them to the sauce; they will bring a unique texture and taste. Additionally, a splash of dry white wine in the sauce can add a sophisticated note.
Calories and nutritional benefits
This recipe for spaghetti with ham, tomato sauce, and basil has about 600 calories per serving, depending on the amount of ham used. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, while basil adds a boost of vitamins A and K. Pasta is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy.
Possible variations
- You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or olives to diversify the recipe.
- Replace ham with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add spices like chili flakes or oregano for a spicy note.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for a healthier option, adding extra fiber.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili flakes or hot pepper sauce, depending on your preferences.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Of course! You can make the sauce a day ahead and reheat it before adding the cooked pasta.
This recipe for spaghetti with ham, tomato sauce, and basil is versatile, tasty, and perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner. Feel free to customize it to your tastes and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti, 300 g ham or minced meat, 1 onion, 1 red bell pepper, 1 carrot, 400-500 ml tomato juice, 1 teaspoon sugar, optional 1 tablespoon flour (if we want a thicker sauce), 5-6 cloves of garlic, salt and pepper to taste, fresh basil, 2-3 tablespoons oil.
