Penne with tomatoes, ham, basil, and cheese
Penne with tomatoes, ham, basil, and cheese: a quick and tasty recipe
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Welcome to my kitchen, where today I will take you on a culinary journey with a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for those days when time is limited, but you want to indulge in a delightful lunch or dinner. This penne recipe with tomatoes, ham, basil, and cheese is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will delight your taste buds.
A brief history
Pasta is a staple food in many cultures, with a long-standing tradition. Over time, it has evolved into countless shapes, sauces, and combinations. This recipe combines simple yet flavorful ingredients into a symphony of tastes. The ham adds a salty note, the tomatoes preserve the sweetness of the season, and the basil offers a fresh summer fragrance.
Necessary ingredients
- 500 g canned whole tomatoes
- 7 slices of ham
- 1 medium leek
- 400 g penne pasta
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, for serving)
Ingredient details
Canned tomatoes are excellent for sauces because they are picked at peak ripeness and processed quickly, preserving their flavor and texture. The ham provides a pleasant texture and a salty taste, but you can also use pancetta or bacon for a more intense flavor. The leek adds a delicate note, while fresh basil will fill the air with an irresistible aroma. The finely grated cheese will melt over the pasta, making everything creamier.
Step by step: Your guide to a perfect result
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the ham into thin strips. Clean the leek and slice it into rounds. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready in front of you, so it’s easier to follow the steps.
2. Cooking the ham and leek: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the leek rounds and the sliced ham. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the leek becomes soft and the ham is lightly browned. This step will add depth of flavor to the dish.
3. Preparing the sauce: After the leek and ham have cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the 500 g of canned tomatoes, along with a pinch of sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped basil, allowing the sauce to simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes. It will become more concentrated, and the flavors will blend perfectly.
4. Cooking the pasta: Meanwhile, boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Once cooked al dente, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
5. Assembling the dish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Return the ham and leek, stirring everything together to combine the flavors. If necessary, add a little olive oil to achieve a creamier texture.
6. Serving: Divide the pasta into plates, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and if desired, drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar for a unique flavor. These penne with tomatoes, ham, basil, and cheese are delicious both hot and at room temperature, making them perfect for a quick lunch or a family dinner.
Useful tips
- You can add black olives for extra flavor.
- If you want a spicier sauce, you can add a little dried chili or chili flakes.
- Replace cheese with grated Parmesan for a more intense flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as they will continue to cook in the skillet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to peel and chop them well.
2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
You can make it vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
3. What side dish goes well with this meal?
A fresh green salad or a rocket salad with lemon would be excellent sides.
4. How many calories does a serving have?
A serving contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.
This penne recipe with tomatoes, ham, basil, and cheese is not only easy but also a great way to share unforgettable moments with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to make this dish even more personal. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 500g whole tomatoes {canned} 7 slices of Prague ham leek olive oil sea salt, black pepper balsamic vinegar 400g penne pasta basil cheese
