Carbonara Pasta

Delicious Pasta Recipe with Prosciutto and Cream

When it comes to quick and tasty dishes, few can rival a plate of pasta with prosciutto and cream. This recipe is a perfect choice for quick dinners or for those moments when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich taste of prosciutto combined with the creaminess of the cream and Emmental cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back to this recipe. Let's begin our culinary journey!

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

Ingredients

- 200 g pasta (preferably spiral shells)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 g prosciutto, sliced
- 2 egg yolks
- 200 g cream
- 100 g Emmental cheese, diced
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- A few fresh parsley leaves, chopped

A Bit of History

Pasta has a long and fascinating history, being a staple food in many cultures around the world. Over time, it has evolved from simple mixtures of water and flour into various shapes and refined dishes. This recipe for pasta with prosciutto and cream pays homage to culinary traditions, combining simple ingredients to create a sophisticated and comforting dish.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Boiling the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 liter of water for every 100 g of pasta. Add the pasta and boil according to the package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When al dente, drain and quickly rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce
In a deep skillet, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the strips of prosciutto and fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden. The delicious aromas will begin to fill the kitchen!

Step 3: Creating the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the cream with the two egg yolks and a dash of ground nutmeg. This mixture will add warmth and a slightly sweet flavor to your sauce. Once the prosciutto is ready, carefully pour the cream mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the yolks. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the diced Emmental cheese. Gently stir, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a rich and savory texture. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the Pasta: Spiral shells are ideal for this dish, but you can also use other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne.
- Prosciutto: If you can't find prosciutto, you can use ham or bacon for a different flavor.
- Cheese: Emmental can be replaced with another type of melting cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, depending on your preferences.
- Nutmeg: This adds a special flavor to the sauce, but use it sparingly. You can opt for black pepper or grated parmesan for a more intense taste.

Possible Variations

- Vegetarian: A delicious option would be to replace prosciutto with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a vegetarian dish.
- Spicier: Add chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- White Sauce: Instead of cream, you can use a combination of milk and flour to create a lighter white sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and provides extra fiber.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a lemon-mint cocktail are excellent choices to complement the flavors of this dish.

- How long does this dish keep?
Pasta with prosciutto and cream can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a bit of extra cream to restore the creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

This dish contains approximately 600 calories per serving, being rich in protein due to the prosciutto and cheese. The cream provides healthy fats, while the pasta supplies necessary carbohydrates for energy. A balanced portion of this dish can be part of a varied diet, considering portion moderation.

Personal Note

This pasta recipe with prosciutto and cream is one of my favorites for evenings when I want to relax with a tasty and comforting dinner. I love to add a splash of lemon juice over the pasta before serving to enhance the flavors and add a touch of freshness. Feel free to experiment and add your personal touch to the dish!

Enjoy this simple and quick recipe, perfect for savoring with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 200 g pasta (I used spiral shells) 2 tablespoons of oil 100 g prosciutto 2 egg yolks 200 g sour cream 100 g Emmental cheese a pinch of grated nutmeg a few parsley leaves

 Tags:  carbonara pasta