Pasta/Pizza - Penne with vegetables and rustic ham by Simona K. - Recipia
Penne with Vegetables and Country Ham

If you are looking for a pasta recipe that combines the flavor of vegetables with the authentic taste of country ham, then penne with vegetables and country ham is the perfect choice! This simple and quick recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also transport you on a culinary journey full of aromas and textures.

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

Ingredients:
- 250 g penne
- 150-200 g country ham
- 1 can of tomatoes in sauce (approximately 400 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for an extra splash of color)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Dried basil (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Recipe History:
Pasta is a staple food in many culinary cultures, and the combination of vegetables with cured meats is a tradition that has evolved over time. Country ham, a pork product, brings an intense and hearty flavor, being a cherished ingredient in kitchens around the world. This penne recipe with vegetables and country ham is a modern reinterpretation of simple yet tasty dishes with deep roots in culinary tradition.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the two onions and the garlic cloves. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand to make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.

2. Sautéing the Onions: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.

3. Adding the Vegetables: Cut the bell pepper into thin strips and add it to the skillet. Stir and let it sauté with the onion for 5 minutes until it becomes slightly soft.

4. Including the Ham: Add the diced country ham. Let it brown for 3-4 minutes to release its flavors and blend with the vegetables.

5. Preparing the Sauce: Add the can of tomatoes in sauce and the finely chopped garlic. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.

6. Boiling the Pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with a teaspoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the penne and let it cook for 8-10 minutes according to the package instructions until al dente.

7. Finishing the Dish: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander. Add it to the skillet with the vegetable and ham sauce and mix well to allow the sauce to coat evenly.

8. Serving: Serve the penne hot, sprinkled with a little fresh basil or grated Parmesan if desired. A fresh green salad or homemade bread pairs perfectly!

Useful Tips:
- You can replace the country ham with pancetta or bacon for an even more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
- This recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, giving you a quick meal on busy days.

Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are excellent options to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? By adding chili flakes or hot sauce to the tomato sauce, you'll achieve a spicier taste.
- Can the recipe be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the vegetable and ham sauce. When you're ready to serve, thaw it and reheat before adding the cooked pasta.

I hope this recipe for penne with vegetables and country ham brings you smiles and pleasant moments with your loved ones! Experiment with the ingredients and find the combination that suits you best. Enjoy your meal!

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Pasta/Pizza - Penne with vegetables and rustic ham by Simona K. - Recipia

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