Bows with ham and mushrooms
Fusilli with Ham and Mushrooms – A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Special Moments
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Who doesn't love a steaming plate of pasta? This fusilli recipe with ham and mushrooms is perfect for those days when you want to cook quickly but don’t want to compromise on taste. It’s a simple recipe with ingredients you always have on hand, bringing together the rich flavors of mushrooms and smoked ham. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but is also nutritious, making it an excellent option for the whole family.
Basic Ingredients – Details and Useful Tips
- Fusilli (or any other preferred pasta shape) - 500 g
Choose whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients. Fusilli are ideal because their shape holds the sauce and flavors well, but you can also use penne or spaghetti.
- Fresh Mushrooms - 500 g
Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can experiment with portobello or shiitake mushrooms for a more intense flavor. If you don’t have fresh mushrooms, canned or frozen ones are a good alternative.
- Smoked Ham - 250 g
You can also use pork pastrami or pressed ham. Choose a quality product, as the smoky flavor will add depth to the dish.
- Olive Oil - 100 ml
Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste. This is an essential ingredient that will help cook the ingredients and add a touch of flavor.
- Cheese or Parmesan - 100 g
Choose a cheese that melts well. Parmesan adds a salty and umami note, while cheese will add creaminess.
- Oregano - to taste
Fresh oregano is ideal, but dried will work as well. This aromatic herb perfectly complements the flavors of the mushrooms and ham.
- Salt - 10 g
Use sea salt or kosher salt for better flavor.
- Pepper - 2 g
Add freshly ground pepper for a more intense taste.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, add water and salt, then bring it to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook according to the package instructions until "al dente." This means the pasta will be cooked but still have a firm texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms and Ham
Clean the mushrooms and slice them thinly. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and let it heat up. Add the diced ham and cook for about 10 minutes until browned and crispy. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until the mushrooms soften and release their juices.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a heat-resistant container, combine the cooked pasta with the ham and mushroom mixture. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Add Cheese and Spices
Sprinkle the cheese or parmesan and oregano over the mixture. If you wish, you can mix the cheese directly into the composition for a creamier texture.
5. Bake the Dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this dish can make a difference! I suggest adding a few fresh basil or parsley leaves on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can accompany the plate with a crunchy green salad and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This will balance the rich flavors of the pasta.
Variations and Tips
- Substitute the ham with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- If you enjoy spicy dishes, add chili flakes to the skillet along with the ham.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham and mushrooms, and healthy fats from the olive oil. The mushrooms provide B vitamins, which contribute to the health of the nervous system, and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for added fiber and nutrients.
2. What other types of meat can I use?
You can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even bacon for a different taste.
3. How can I make this dish vegan?
Replace the ham with tempeh or tofu and use vegan cheese.
4. How many calories does a serving have?
A serving of fusilli with ham and mushrooms has approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the ingredients.
I encourage you to try this simple fusilli recipe with ham and mushrooms. It’s a perfect choice for a family dinner, but also for moments when you want to impress friends. It will surely become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!
Ingredients: melted cheese (or price model you have) 500 GR. fresh mushrooms 500 gr. (or canned, frozen mushrooms) smoked ham 250 gr. (or pork pastrama, pressed ham, smoked ciloan, etc.) olive oil 100 ml cheese or parmesan 100 gr. oregano salt 10 gr. pepper 2 gr.
