Pasta with ham, vegetables, and sour cream

Delicious Pasta Recipe with Ham, Vegetables, and Cream

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 35 minutes Servings: 4

Discover a simple and tasty recipe for pasta with ham, vegetables, and cream, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. This recipe combines textures and flavors, transforming a staple ingredient like pasta into a truly special dish. I will provide you with all the necessary details step by step to achieve a perfect result, along with useful tips and alternative options.

Ingredients:

- 400 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 100 g ham (or jambon, depending on your preferences)
- 200 g champignon mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 100 g cottage cheese (or feta cheese for a saltier note)
- 100 g grated cheese
- 150 g cream (you can also use cooking cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil

Necessary utensils:

- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A deep frying pan
- A knife and a cutting board
- A colander
- A large bowl for mixing the pasta

Nutritional information:

This recipe is a good source of protein due to the ham and cheese, also providing carbohydrates from the pasta, which will give you the necessary energy. Additionally, the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. One serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 550 calories, but this number may vary depending on the type of pasta and cheese used.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a little salt. Put it on medium to high heat. Once the water starts to boil, add the pasta. Cook according to the instructions on the package, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). This step is essential to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.

2. Prepare the ingredients: While the pasta is boiling, chop the onion, ham, bell pepper, and mushrooms into small cubes. This will help with even and quick cooking. Make sure to use a sharp knife to make the process easier.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In a deep frying pan, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the mushrooms and continue to sauté for another 5-6 minutes until they soften and release their delicious aroma.

4. Add the ham and cheese: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the ham and mix well. After a few minutes, when the ham becomes slightly crispy, add the cottage cheese and grated cheese. Stir until the cheese starts to melt.

5. Incorporate the cream: Once the cheese has melted, add the cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything until you achieve a homogeneous and creamy composition. You can adjust the amount of cream depending on how creamy you want the sauce to be.

6. Mix with the pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the pasta to the frying pan, over the vegetable and cheese sauce. Carefully mix, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated with sauce.

7. Serve with love: Divide the pasta into plates and, if desired, you can sprinkle a little grated cheese or fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, on top for an extra touch of flavor and color. This pasta with ham and vegetables is delicious both hot and at room temperature, making it ideal for office lunches.

Variations and serving suggestions:

- Add vegetables: You can experiment with adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, for extra nutrients and color.
- Substitutes for ham: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with tofu or a mix of sautéed vegetables.
- Spices: For a more intense flavor, you can add spices like oregano, basil, or even chili flakes for a touch of heat.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option to add fiber and improve the nutritional value of the meal.
- How can I store leftover pasta? If you have leftover pasta, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in a frying pan with a little oil to bring it back to life.
- Can it be frozen? While it is possible to freeze pasta with sauce, it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain optimal texture.

This pasta recipe with ham, vegetables, and cream is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing it to be adapted according to your preferences. Enjoy every bite and savor meals with your loved ones! Bon appétit!