Pasta with vegetable sauce and smoked meat

Pasta with vegetable sauce and smoked meat - a quick and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

On a summer evening, when the sun sets and the squirrels seem to be more active than ever, I remember some of the simplest and most delicious dishes we can create in the kitchen. This recipe for pasta with vegetable sauce and smoked meat is perfect for those moments when you want to enjoy a quick meal, but full of flavor.

Pasta has a long history, being a staple in many culinary cultures. It is versatile and can be combined with a variety of ingredients. In our recipe, the vegetable sauce adds a special freshness, while the smoked meat provides a rich taste that will delight the meal.

Ingredients:

- 250 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- water (about 2 liters for boiling)
- salt (2 tablespoons)
- 300 g smoked meat (choose a lean meat, such as ham or smoked sausages)
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 green onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 1/2 cup white wine (a dry wine will add a touch of acidity)
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boiling the pasta:
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add salt. Add the pasta and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the meat:
While the pasta is boiling, cut the smoked meat into small cubes. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the meat. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until golden and fragrant.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Chop the green onion finely. Add it to the skillet with the meat. Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Meanwhile, peel the tomato (you can dip it in hot water for a few seconds to make it easier to peel) and cut it into cubes. Toss the tomato into the skillet along with the onion.

4. The bell pepper:
Slice the bell pepper thinly and add it to the skillet. Mix all the ingredients well and let them cook together for 8 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.

5. Deglazing with wine:
After 8 minutes, pour the white wine over the meat and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the wine reduces to about 1/4-1/2 of its volume. This step is essential, as the wine will enhance the flavors and add a touch of refinement to the sauce.

6. Finishing the sauce:
Add the tomato paste and salt, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Serving:
When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet over the sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta with the flavorful sauce.

8. Garnishing and serving:
You can garnish the plate with a little chopped fresh parsley or grated cheese if you like. Serve hot, alongside a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Useful tips:

- Choose quality pasta: Opt for durum wheat pasta, which retains its shape and texture after boiling.
- Smoked meat: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can choose pork or smoked sausages, but smoked chicken will also work great.
- Variations: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or olives for an extra burst of flavor. You can experiment with various vegetables according to your preferences.
- The secret of the sauce: If you want a creamier sauce, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or fresh cheese when you add the tomato paste.

Nutritional information: This recipe is balanced, offering a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the smoked meat, and vitamins from the vegetables. A serving contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Pairings and suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine to highlight the flavors of the sauce. Additionally, a tomato basil salad or a green salad with lemon dressing will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for higher fiber intake.

2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
Replace the smoked meat with tofu or seitan and add more vegetables to compensate.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth to prevent drying out.

I invite you to try this simple and quick recipe, perfect for those moments when you want to indulge in a tasty and comforting dish! Enjoy your meal!