Pasta with ham

Pasta with smoked ham - a simple and quick recipe for a delicious lunch

If you are looking for a quick and tasty pasta recipe, you have come to the right place. This smoked ham pasta recipe is perfect for days when time is limited, but the craving for something savory is unlimited. The rich aroma of smoked ham combined with a warm and spicy tomato sauce transforms this dish into a true delicacy.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 150 g smoked ham, diced (choose a quality variant for an intense flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (preferably white onion, which is sweeter)
- 400 g tomato puree (you can use canned puree or homemade)
- 1 cube of vegetable stock (delicate)
- Dried chili pepper, to taste (if you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount)
- 180 g pasta (spaghetti or penne are excellent for this sauce)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt (optional, to taste)

A touch of history

Pasta is a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, with a history that spans thousands of years. Although its exact origin is disputed, it is certain that it has evolved over time, adapting to local ingredients and culinary customs. This simple smoked ham pasta recipe reflects basic gastronomic principles: few but quality ingredients, cooked with care and passion.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Finely chop the onion so that it sautés evenly. Make sure the smoked ham is diced into similar-sized pieces for even frying.

2. In a large pan, add two tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat.

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion in the dish.

4. Now, add the diced smoked ham to the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham becomes crispy and releases its rich flavors.

5. At this point, add the dried chili pepper, tomato puree, and vegetable stock cube. Mix well, cover the pan, and let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

6. About 10 minutes before the sauce is ready, bring a pot of water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. When the water boils, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

7. When the pasta is ready, drain it well, but keep a cup of the boiling water. This water is full of starch and will help thicken the sauce.

8. Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the ham sauce and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved boiling water to thin it out and make it creamier.

9. Serve immediately, with grated Parmesan on top if you prefer. Personally, I enjoy savoring this recipe without cheese to let the natural flavors shine.

Useful tips

- If you want to add a personal touch, you can include some sliced green or black olives for a more complex flavor.
- Another delicious variant is to add some chopped fresh basil leaves before serving for a fresh aroma.
- Make sure the pasta is al dente – this will absorb the sauce better and have a more pleasant texture.
- You can replace the smoked ham with bacon or a mix of vegetables to create a vegetarian version.

Nutritional benefits

This smoked ham pasta recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The smoked ham provides essential proteins, while whole wheat pasta is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-term energy. The tomato puree is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health.

Estimated calories per serving: 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, using whole grain pasta adds fiber and additional nutrients to the dish.

2. How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add more dried chili pepper or even a few slices of fresh chili pepper.

3. What can I use instead of tomato puree?
If you don’t have puree, you can use fresh tomatoes, diced, or even tomato juice.

4. What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta pairs excellently with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

I encourage you to experiment with this smoked ham pasta recipe and customize it according to your preferences. Whether you prepare it for a quick dinner during the week or for a relaxed meal on the weekend, the result will always be delicious. Enjoy your meal!