Spaghetti with sauce

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Ham – A Classic, Quick, and Tasty Recipe

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a steaming plate of spaghetti with sauce? This simple recipe for spaghetti with tomato sauce and ham is not only a quick choice for a delicious dinner, but also a way to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. We’re talking about a dish that combines the flavor of fresh ingredients with the perfect texture of pasta, making it ideal for a family dinner or even a gathering with friends.

A Brief History of Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a symbol of Italian cuisine, but it has become an international favorite due to its versatility. These long, thin noodles can be paired with numerous sauces, and each recipe has its own story. The simple and delicious tomato sauce is a classic that has its origins in Italy, where fresh tomatoes are abundant. The addition of ham adds a touch of flavor and substance to this dish, making it an excellent option for any meal.

Ingredients

For the sauce:
- 1 medium onion (approx. 150 g)
- 100 g ham (preferably smoked for extra flavor)
- 1 can of tomatoes (400 g)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:
- 300 g spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan (for serving)
- Dried or fresh basil (for garnish)

Step by Step: Preparing the Recipe

1. Cook the spaghetti
Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a tablespoon of salt (the salt will help flavor the pasta). Place it over high heat and wait for the water to boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and let it cook for 7-8 minutes or according to the package instructions, until al dente.

2. Prepare the sauce
While the spaghetti is cooking, peel and chop the onion into small cubes. Cut the ham into cubes and prepare a large skillet. In the skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ham, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the ham releases its aroma.

3. Add the tomatoes
Once the onion is sautéed, add the can of tomatoes to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes flavorful.

4. Combine the pasta with the sauce
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it well and add it directly to the skillet, over the tomato and ham sauce. Mix everything well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it cook together for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve with love
Once the spaghetti is well mixed with the sauce, divide it onto plates. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and fresh or dried basil on top, according to your preference. Enjoy your meal!

Practical Tips

- Preparing the Sauce: The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It’s an excellent choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Simply reheat it in the skillet before adding the pasta.
- Recipe Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even olives for an extra burst of flavor. For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms.
- Ideal Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a glass of white or red wine. Additionally, a fresh baguette is excellent for mopping up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I keep the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure it is well covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

2. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a healthy alternative and offers a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you want a spicy kick, add a pinch of dried chili pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s cooking.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for spaghetti with tomato sauce and ham is a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, while the ham adds protein. Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, beneficial for the heart.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious spaghetti with sauce, don’t hesitate to adapt it to your taste! This recipe is versatile, easy to make, and, most importantly, full of flavor. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create something special. So, let’s enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: For the sauce: 1 onion, 100 g ham, 1 can of tomatoes (400 g), 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper, 300 g spaghetti, grated parmesan, dried basil.