Pasta with smoked ham and mushrooms

Pasta with smoked ham and mushrooms: a delicious and comforting recipe

About the recipe:
Pasta with smoked ham and mushrooms is a dish that combines the intense flavors of the ingredients, and their aroma is simply irresistible. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. The origins of this recipe can be found in the culinary tradition of simple dishes that highlight basic ingredients but can easily be adapted to individual tastes.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any preferred type)
- 300 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or pleurotus)
- 150 g smoked ham, diced
- 100 g cheese or grated cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 150 ml white wine (choose a dry wine for better taste)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:
1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water boils, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-12 minutes, depending on the type). While the pasta is boiling, you can continue with the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and smoked ham. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the ham becomes slightly crispy.

3. Add the garlic: When the onion is ready, add the minced garlic. Sauté for one minute, being careful not to burn it. The garlic will add a delicious aroma to the dish.

4. Mushrooms: Clean and cut the mushrooms into irregular pieces, but not too large. Add them to the skillet and stir. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their water and become tender.

5. Wine: Pour the white wine into the skillet and let it boil for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the ham already contains salt. Mix the ingredients well.

7. Finish the dish: After the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet, mixing it with the mushroom, ham, and onion sauce. Let everything combine well for 2-3 minutes.

8. Add the cheese: Finally, add the grated cheese and mix well, allowing it to melt slightly and coat the pasta in a delicious layer of cheese.

9. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with a bit of freshly ground pepper and, if desired, with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choosing mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a richer flavor to the dish.
- Variations: If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can also include some diced bell pepper or zucchini in the skillet along with the onion.
- Alcohol-free: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the wine with vegetable broth or water.
- Serving: This pasta is also delicious cold, so you can prepare a larger portion and serve it the next day as a cold lunch.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option and pairs perfectly with this sauce.
2. How can I make the recipe lower in calories? Replace the smoked ham with lean ham or bacon and use light cheese.
3. Can I add vegetables? Certainly! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or carrots can be added for an extra nutrient boost.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers an excellent combination of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham and mushrooms, as well as healthy fats from the olive oil. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, and cheese provides essential calcium for bone health.

Culinary pairings:
For a complete meal, this pasta can be served alongside a fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the flavors on the plate.

Conclusion:
Pasta with smoked ham and mushrooms is an accessible, quick, and flavorful recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences. Whether you choose to prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, this dish will surely bring joy to every plate. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your own personal touches! Enjoy!