Pasta timbales with mushrooms and ham

Pasta Timbales with Chanterelles and Ham – a Delight for Any Table

If you are looking for a recipe that impresses with taste and appearance, you have come to the right place! Pasta timbales with chanterelles and ham are not only an excellent choice for a dinner with friends or family, but also a delicious way to experience refreshing and nourishing ingredient combinations. This recipe combines textures and flavors, turning each serving into a true feast for the taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 350 g shell pasta (or other similarly shaped pasta)
- 100 g flour
- 50 g butter
- 450 ml milk
- 300 g fresh chanterelles, washed and finely chopped (or seasonal mushrooms)
- 150 g pressed ham, diced
- 150 g grated cheese (preferably a mix of mozzarella and parmesan)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 small red cabbage, shredded
- A pinch of grated nutmeg
- Olive oil
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and a little olive oil. Cook for about 8 minutes, making sure to keep them al dente. This will ensure that the pasta does not become soft and tasteless. After cooking, drain and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the white sauce: In a skillet over low heat, add the butter and let it melt. Add the flour and stir constantly to avoid lumps. Let it cook for a moment, but be careful not to let it color. Then, gradually add the milk, whisking vigorously. Continue to cook over low heat until the sauce becomes creamy. Don’t forget to season the sauce with salt and pepper, as once you pour it into the dish, you cannot adjust the taste.

3. Prepare the filling: In another skillet, pour a little olive oil and add the diced ham. Let it brown slightly. Then, add the cabbage and season with salt and pepper. Cook everything until both ingredients are tender. Remove the filling to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the mushrooms: In the remaining oil, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent. Add the chanterelles (or other mushrooms) and season with salt and pepper. Add a glass of water, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has reduced.

5. Prepare the dish: Grease a baking dish with butter on all sides, making sure it is well covered.

6. Layer the ingredients: Start adding the ingredients to the dish. Create a first layer of pasta, then add a layer of filling with ham and cabbage. Continue with another layer of pasta, followed by mushrooms and onion. Finish with a final layer of pasta.

7. Add the sauce and cheese: Pour the white sauce over the pasta, ensuring it spreads evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and add a little grated nutmeg for extra flavor.

8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and let the timbales bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is nicely browned.

9. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant look. Serve the pasta hot, admiring how the melted cheese forms a delicious crust.

Practical tips:

- Choose mushrooms carefully: Chanterelles have a deep and rich flavor, but if you can’t find them, you can use champignon mushrooms or any other type of your choice.
- Cheese combinations: You can experiment with different cheeses to change the flavor – feta or cheddar can provide a different but delicious taste.
- Variations: You can add additional vegetables, such as grated carrots or zucchini, to the filling to enrich the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is rich in protein due to the ham and cheese, while the chanterelles provide essential fiber and antioxidants. Red cabbage adds a boost of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contributes to healthy digestion. It is a balanced meal that can be included in your daily diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice, adding extra fiber and nutrients.

- How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the ham with tofu or additional vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A light white wine or green tea can perfectly complement the flavors of the pasta. Additionally, a fresh lemonade can provide a pleasant contrast to the rich taste of the dish.

Whether you choose to enjoy pasta timbales with chanterelles and ham for a family meal or a special occasion, each bite will bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones. So, let’s cook and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: -350 g pasta shells -100 g flour -50 g butter -450 ml milk -300 g chopped washed mushrooms -150 g diced pressed ham -150 g grated cheese of your choice -1 medium onion, finely chopped -1 clove of garlic, finely chopped -1 small red cabbage, finely shredded -a pinch of grated nutmeg -olive oil -butter for greasing the tray -fresh parsley for garnish