Cannelloni with pressed ham

Cannelloni with pressed ham and tomato sauce: a delicious and comforting recipe

Welcome to the world of flavors and the joy of cooking! Today, I will show you how to prepare a recipe for cannelloni with pressed ham, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. This recipe may seem a bit complex at first glance, but I assure you that every step is worth the effort, and the result will be an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

The story behind the recipe

Cannelloni is an Italian dish, but this version with pressed ham has deep roots in home cooking traditions, often prepared in families looking to bring a touch of comfort to the table. The idea of filling pasta with various fillings arose from the desire to combine simple ingredients to create flavorful and nourishing meals.

Ingredients

- 1 small onion
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 250 ml tomato juice (preferably homemade)
- 22 slices of pressed ham (or 11 larger slices cut in half)
- 200 g tagliatelle (or cannelloni pasta)
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 75 g mushrooms (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ground bell pepper (optional, for extra flavor)
- 100 g grated cheese (coarsely grated)
- Salt, pepper, and basil to taste
- 500 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 25 g butter
- Nutmeg (to taste)

Preparation steps

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Make sure it is finely chopped so it sautés evenly. Peel the carrot, wash it, and grate it. This will add sweetness and texture to the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the tomato sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté it lightly until it becomes transparent. Then, add the grated carrot and two tablespoons of water. Continue to sauté, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.

Once the carrot has softened, add the tomato juice. Simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens and concentrates, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When the sauce has reduced, remove the skillet from heat and add the chopped mushrooms, bell pepper, capers, salt, pepper, and basil to taste. Mix well and let the mixture cool.

Step 3: Preparing the pasta

Cook the tagliatelle according to the package instructions. Usually, they are boiled in salted water for 7-10 minutes. Once done, drain them and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assembling the cannelloni

Now it’s time to assemble the cannelloni! Take two slices of pressed ham and lay them slightly overlapping on a plate. On each slice, place a portion of tagliatelle, a teaspoon of tomato sauce, and a few sprigs of grated cheese. Carefully roll each slice of ham around the filling, making sure it doesn’t unravel.

Place the rolled cannelloni in a greased baking dish, making sure to place them seam side down to keep them intact.

Step 5: Preparing the white sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, then add the flour. Mix well to form a roux and let it cook for one minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, allowing the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens.

Step 6: Baking

Pour the white sauce evenly over the cannelloni rolls in the dish and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden and appetizing.

Useful tips

1. Quality ingredients make a difference: Use good quality pressed ham and freshly made tomato juice. These will add a special flavor to the dish.
2. Adapt the recipe: You can add other vegetables or cheeses to the filling, such as zucchini or ricotta.
3. Serving: Serve the cannelloni warm, with a fresh green salad on the side for a contrast of textures.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. The carrot and mushrooms provide vitamins and fiber, while the ham offers essential proteins.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, you can use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.

How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in airtight containers for 2-3 days, and reheating can be done in the oven or microwave.

What other sauces can I use?
In addition to tomato sauce and white sauce, you can try a pesto sauce or a cheese sauce for a different twist.

Conclusion

Now that you have gone through all the steps, you are ready to enjoy a delicious dish that will bring a touch of magic to your table. Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity. Enjoy your meal!