Spaghetti with cream sauce and ham

Delicious Spaghetti with Cream and Ham Sauce

When it comes to cooking, sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delicious. Today, I invite you to discover a quick and tasty recipe for spaghetti with cream and ham sauce. This recipe not only prepares in record time but also offers you the opportunity to use ingredients you have on hand in your pantry. So, let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients
- 100 g spaghetti (or any other type of pasta you prefer)
- 1 liter of water
- Salt, to taste
- 150 g ham (or any preferred cold cut)
- 100 g cream
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 small onion
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe History
Spaghetti with cream and ham sauce is a simple recipe that can be found in many kitchens around the world. Its origins are often associated with the tradition of using simple and accessible ingredients that provided a nourishing and satisfying meal. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a family favorite due to its rich flavor and quick preparation method.

Cooking Technique
1. Boiling the Pasta
Start by placing 1 liter of water in a large pot. Add salt to taste and bring the water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and follow the package instructions to cook them al dente. It is important not to let them boil too long, or they will become too soft. Once cooked, drain them and quickly rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the Ham
In a medium skillet, add the diced ham and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. There is no need to add oil, as the ham will release enough fat. Once the ham is ready, set it aside.

3. Making the Sauce
In a bowl, mix the cream with the flour, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder or sweet paprika, for extra flavor.
In another skillet, add a little olive oil and a tablespoon of water. Sauté the finely chopped onion over low heat for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the cream and flour mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

4. Finishing the Dish
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the fried ham to the skillet and mix everything well. Once the sauce is well combined, turn off the heat.
Pour the sauce over the drained pasta and mix well, ensuring that each piece of spaghetti is coated with sauce.

5. Serving
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. If desired, you can also add some grated Parmesan on top for an even richer flavor.

Useful Tips
- Ingredient Variations: Instead of ham, you can use salami, other cold cuts, or even leftover boiled meat from a previous meal. You can also replace the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Spices: Don't hesitate to experiment with spices. Adding basil or oregano can completely transform the dish.
- Serving: This spaghetti pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a serving of grilled vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can use fusilli, penne, or even whole grain pasta, depending on your preferences.

- How can I make the sauce creamier?
For a creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of mascarpone or cottage cheese to the cream mixture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe for spaghetti with cream and ham sauce contains approximately 600 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is a satisfying meal that provides carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham, and healthy fats from the cream. Additionally, the onion adds a good supply of vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion
Spaghetti with cream and ham sauce is an ideal recipe for a quick yet flavorful dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick techniques, you can create a delicious meal that will impress anyone. So, don't hesitate to try it and surprise your family and friends with this simple yet refined dish. Enjoy your meal!