Pasta with sour cream sauce

Pasta with cream sauce and smoked mushrooms

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who can resist a steaming plate of creamy pasta with a rich cream sauce, mushrooms, and a smoky note? This cream sauce pasta recipe is not only quick and simple, but it will also bring a touch of elegance to your meals. The origins of this recipe are lost in the mists of time, but the idea of combining pasta with a creamy sauce has always been appreciated in kitchens around the world. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special evening, this dish will surely impress.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g pasta (choose ridged pasta to better capture the sauce)
- 250 ml cream (opt for high-fat cream for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 3 tablespoons oil (olive oil is an excellent choice)
- 5 mushrooms (choose fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor)
- 150 g smoked raw ham (you can replace it with bacon for a stronger taste)
- Ground white pepper (helps maintain the aesthetics of the sauce)
- Salt (to enhance the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon basil (fresh or dried, depending on your preferences)
- Fresh parsley (to add a touch of freshness)

Preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the sauce: While the pasta is boiling, heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and quickly whisk to avoid lumps. Then, gradually pour in ½ cup of water, continuing to stir to obtain a smooth paste.

3. Add the cream: When the flour mixture is well combined, add the cream. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to simmer gently. This is the ideal time to add the sliced mushrooms and the smoked ham, which have been lightly sautéed in a separate pan to intensify their flavors.

4. Season: Add basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Finally, stir in the chopped parsley, bringing a note of freshness.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is al dente, drain it and add it directly to the saucepan with the cream sauce. Mix well to ensure that each strand of pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Let them combine over low heat for about 10 minutes, so the flavors meld.

6. Serve with style: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if desired, a grating of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. This pasta with cream sauce is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or a flavorful focaccia.

Practical tips:

- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a beaten egg to the cream sauce before mixing in the pasta. This will give it an even creamier texture.
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a more complex flavor.
- This recipe can be easily adapted to be vegetarian – simply omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Nutritional benefits:

This pasta with cream sauce and mushrooms recipe offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Pasta is an excellent source of energy, while cream and mushrooms provide a dose of essential nutrients, such as vitamin D and fiber. A serving of 300 g of pasta with sauce contains approximately 600-800 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use low-fat cream?
- Low-fat cream will make the sauce less creamy, but it is a good choice if you want a lighter version.

2. What other types of pasta can I use?
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer: penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are all excellent for this sauce.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- No, but you can adapt the recipe using plant-based cream and omitting the ham. You can add tofu or seitan for protein.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
- Add chili flakes to the sauce or serve with chili sauce for an extra kick.

Ideal combinations:

This pasta with cream sauce pairs perfectly with a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which will balance the richness of the sauce. Additionally, an arugula salad with lemon dressing and olive oil will bring a pleasant contrast of flavors.

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 300g pasta, 250ml cream, 1 tablespoon flour, 3 tablespoons oil, 5 mushrooms, 150g smoked raw ham, ground white pepper, salt, 1 teaspoon basil, parsley.