Spicy spaghetti with smoked meat and cheese

Spicy spaghetti with smoked meat and cheese - A recipe full of flavor and character

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

When we think of a quick and delicious meal, spicy spaghetti with smoked meat and cheese is one of those recipes that brings a smile to our faces. This dish combines the intense flavors of smoked meat with the heat of chili peppers and the freshness of cherry tomatoes, creating a memorable culinary experience. Let's discover together how to prepare this simple and tasty recipe!

A brief history of spaghetti

Spaghetti is one of the most beloved types of pasta around the world. Over time, it has evolved from a simple staple food in Italy to a symbol of Italian cuisine. It can be customized with numerous sauces and ingredients, and today we propose a version that combines the rusticity of smoked meat with the delicacy of cheese. It’s a perfect recipe for a quick dinner that will surely impress family and friends.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 package of spaghetti (about 400 g)
- 150 g cheese, freshly grated or diced
- 200 g smoked ham or sausage, diced
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 chili pepper, seeded and sliced thinly
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon of dried spice mix (oregano, thyme, marjoram, pepper, bay leaf, basil)
- Salt, to taste

Step by step preparation

1. Boil the spaghetti: In a large pot, add water and salt, then bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes for al dente).

2. Drain and cool: Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the perfect texture of the pasta.

3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat.

4. Sauté the chili pepper: Add the chili pepper rings and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly soft. Then remove them to a plate to keep them crispy.

5. Cook the smoked meat and tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the diced smoked meat and cherry tomatoes. Sauté everything for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and the smoked meat turns golden.

6. Combine the ingredients: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, sprinkle the dried spice mix and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors and reduce the heat, letting everything warm through for 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the spaghetti to plates. Sprinkle the grated or diced cheese on top and garnish with the remaining chili pepper rings. You can add a drizzle of extra olive oil for added flavor and the fresh aroma of basil.

Practical tips

- Ingredient substitutions: If you don't have smoked meat on hand, you can use bacon, traditional sausages, or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian option.
- For added flavor: Add chopped garlic to the skillet along with the chili pepper for a deeper taste.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the smoked meat with salted mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use soy cheese or other plant-based cheeses.

Nutritional benefits

This spicy spaghetti recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Pasta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy, while smoked meat adds essential proteins. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and chili pepper contains capsaicin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Calories and servings

One serving of spicy spaghetti with smoked meat and cheese (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the type of smoked meat and cheese used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy choice and adds extra fiber.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
You can use them for lunch the next day by simply reheating them in the microwave. Alternatively, you can turn them into a cold salad by adding fresh vegetables and a vinaigrette.

3. How can I adjust the spiciness level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili pepper or use a sweet pepper for a gentler flavor.

I hope this spicy spaghetti recipe with smoked meat and cheese inspires you to experiment in the kitchen! It’s a simple yet full of personality recipe, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!