Pasta with ham and mushrooms

Delicious pasta recipe with ham and mushrooms: a feast of flavors in the comfort of your home

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 3

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, pasta with ham and mushrooms is the perfect choice! This simple yet flavorful recipe will turn your everyday meal into a true culinary delight. Inspired by culinary traditions that combine simple yet tasty ingredients, this recipe will bring a touch of joy to every bite.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli, but you can choose other preferred shapes)
- 100g pressed ham, cut into thin strips
- 100g fresh mushrooms (champignon or any other preferred type)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 400g)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- Spices: salt, pepper, tarragon, basil, nutmeg (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When ready, drain well and rinse quickly with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

3. Add the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Add them to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and slightly golden. This step will enhance the flavor of the mushrooms, bringing a nice texture to the sauce.

4. Ham and tomatoes: Add the strips of ham to the skillet and let them fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Then, add the diced tomatoes and mix. Season with salt, pepper, tarragon, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to blend perfectly.

5. Mix the pasta with the sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta with the delicious sauce. Cook together for 2-3 minutes to achieve a perfect combination of flavors.

6. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, drizzled with a splash of olive oil and, if desired, topped with grated Parmesan or even a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can accompany this dish with a crispy green salad for a contrast of textures.

Practical tips:

- Choose the right pasta: Short pasta like penne or fusilli is ideal for holding the sauce.
- Experiment with mushrooms: You can try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- The sauce: It is recommended to prepare the sauce before the pasta. This way, the pasta will be warm when mixed, and the sauce will evenly coat each piece.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enrich the recipe. You can also replace the ham with chicken breast or a mix of cheeses for a vegetarian version.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Recipe history:

This pasta recipe with ham and mushrooms has its roots in culinary traditions that emphasize fresh ingredients and quick preparations. It is a perfect example of how you can transform simple ingredients into delicious and satisfying dishes, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthier option, rich in fiber.
2. What else can I add to the sauce? Try adding green or black olives, or even a spoonful of cream for a creamier sauce.
3. Can this dish be frozen? Although it is best fresh, you can freeze the sauce, and the pasta can be boiled and stored in the refrigerator for quick use.

Ideal pairings:

This pasta with ham and mushrooms pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a craft beer. Additionally, a tomato salad with onion and basil would perfectly complement the meal.

Try this pasta recipe with ham and mushrooms and enjoy a simple yet flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 300g pasta (approximately 100g per serving) 100g pressed ham 100g mushrooms 1 can diced tomatoes salt, pepper garlic, tarragon, basil, nutmeg to taste olive oil