Pasta with carrot and salami

Pasta with Carrots and Salami: A Simple and Comforting Delight

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will prepare a recipe for pasta with carrots and salami, a delicious and easy-to-make combination, perfect for a quick and hearty dinner. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for busy days but also a perfect opportunity to explore the simple yet flavorful tastes of fresh ingredients.

This pasta recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize quality ingredients and simple cooking, leaving room for creativity. Whether you are a beginner cook or a cooking enthusiast, you will find that with a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious dish.

Ingredients

- 400 g pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 300 g summer salami (or any preferred type)
- 2 sweet and tender carrots
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 1 large tomato
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Dried thyme (for garnish)

Ingredient Details

- Pasta: Choose whole grain pasta for a healthier option or gluten-free pasta if you have an intolerance. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper cooking.
- Salami: You can use summer salami or any other preferred cold cut. If you want a healthier option, choose a low-fat salami.
- Carrots: Choose fresh, sweet, and crunchy carrots that will add a pleasant flavor to the dish.
- Garlic: It is not only an aromatic ingredient but also a superfood with multiple health benefits.
- Tomatoes: Use fresh, seasonal tomatoes for an intense and natural taste.

Preparation

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is essential to enjoy the perfect texture of the pasta. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, peel the carrots and slice them into thin rounds. Cut the bell pepper into strips and the tomato into cubes, making sure to remove the skin and seeds to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

3. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.

4. Add the vegetables and salami: Add the sliced carrots and bell pepper to the skillet, then add the diced salami. Sauté everything for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the salami releases its flavors into the oil.

5. Finish the dish: When the vegetables are ready, add the diced tomato and mix well. Let it simmer together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly. Then, add the cooked pasta and mix everything very well, ensuring the pasta is coated in the flavorful sauce.

6. Serve: Transfer the dish to plates and sprinkle a little dried thyme on top for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These pasta with carrots and salami go perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also accompany this dish with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to complete the meal.

Helpful Tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, for extra color and nutrients. If you are vegetarian, replace the salami with tofu or mushrooms.
- Spices: Instead of thyme, you can use oregano or fresh basil for a different flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for pasta with carrots and salami contains approximately 600 calories per serving, making it a balanced and filling meal. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, while garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy, and the salami adds necessary protein to the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
- How can I make this dish spicier? You can add chili peppers or red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.
- Is this recipe good for making in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pasta and vegetables a few hours ahead and then reheat them before serving.

Cooking is not just a necessity but also a form of art. These pasta with carrots and salami are proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. I invite you to try this recipe and share your culinary stories with us!