Pasta with cheese and ham

Delicious pasta recipe with cheese and ham

If you're looking for a simple, quick, and extremely tasty recipe, you've come to the right place! Pasta with cheese and ham is a classic dish that brings joy to the table and can be customized in countless ways. Moreover, it is ideal for both lunch and dinner. Whether you have a busy day or simply want to treat yourself to something delicious, this recipe will satisfy all your culinary desires.

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

Ingredients:
- 400 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 250 g ham (you can also use bacon or prosciutto, depending on your preferences)
- 250 g cheese (cottage cheese or feta are excellent options)
- 140 g yogurt (natural yogurt will add a creamy note)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history:
Pasta with cheese and ham is a dish that has become popular in many cultures, appreciated for its versatility and speed. This pasta can be adapted based on available ingredients, and the combination of cheese and ham offers a perfect balance between creamy and salty. It’s a perfect recipe for using leftovers from the fridge, turning them into a tasty lunch.

Tips:
- Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking. This will make the process much easier and more enjoyable.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to achieve varied flavors.
- If you want to add extra nutrients, you can include vegetables like spinach or broccoli, which can be added to the pasta in the last few minutes of boiling.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add water with a bit of oil and salt. Bring it to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente.

2. Prepare the ingredients: While the pasta is boiling, cut the ham into small cubes or strips. If using cottage cheese, lightly mash it with a fork to make it creamier.

3. Cool the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, then rinse it quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the perfect texture of the pasta.

4. Combine the ingredients: In a large skillet or pot, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the pasta, ham, and cheese to the skillet. Add the yogurt and mix well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

6. Heat: Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

7. Serve: Once everything is well combined and hot, serve the pasta immediately. You can add a little chopped fresh parsley on top for a splash of color and flavor.

Serving suggestions:
- This pasta pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.
- Offer a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade to complete the meal.

Interesting variations:
- Vegetable pasta: Add vegetables like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra nutrient boost.
- Pasta with tomato sauce: Substitute the yogurt with tomato sauce for a richer flavor variant.
- Spiced pasta: Add spices like oregano, basil, or chili to give the dish a more intense flavor.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 550 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy and more nutritious alternative.
- What can I do if I don’t have yogurt? You can replace yogurt with sour cream or a cheese sauce for a creamier version.
- How can I make the recipe easier? You can use pre-cooked or frozen pasta to reduce preparation time.

This cheese and ham pasta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. Whether you make it for yourself or for loved ones, it will surely bring smiles to the table. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy cooking!