Creamy Ham and Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Ham and Tomato Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. With tender pasta, savory ham, fresh tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s a satisfying recipe that’s easy to whip up on busy days. Serve it as a comforting dinner or a hearty lunch—it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• Pasta: 160 g (5.6 oz)
• Onion: 1/2 pc, finely chopped
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Paprika: 1/2 pc, diced
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Ham: 100 g (3.5 oz), diced
• Tomatoes: 150 g (5.3 oz), diced
• Cream: 200 g (3/4 cup)
• Salt: To taste
• Black pepper: To taste

Directions

• Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add pasta and cook until al dente or soft, as per your preference.
  • Drain and set aside.
• Prepare the Sauce:
  • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  • Add diced paprika and minced garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in diced ham and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add the Tomatoes and Cream:
  • Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Pour in the cream and stir well to combine.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Combine and Serve:
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
  • Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

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Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added flavor.
• Pair with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• Use any pasta type you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
• Substitute ham with bacon, cooked chicken, or a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms.
• Adjust the cream’s thickness by adding a splash of pasta water.

Nutritional Benefits

• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants like lycopene.
• Ham: Provides protein and essential B vitamins.
• Cream: Adds calcium and richness to the dish.

Dietary Information

• Contains gluten and dairy.
• Not suitable for vegan or lactose-free diets unless substitutions are made.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

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• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Creamy and flavorful, perfect for satisfying pasta cravings.
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein.
• Ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Conclusion
Creamy Ham and Tomato Pasta is a comforting and versatile dish that combines the richness of cream with the freshness of tomatoes and the savory goodness of ham. It’s a recipe you can rely on for a quick yet satisfying meal. Whip it up and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cream instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, fresh cream works well but may result in a lighter sauce.
2. What type of pasta works best?
   Any pasta type works, but short pasta like penne or fusilli is excellent for holding the sauce.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
4. Can I add cheese to the recipe?
   Absolutely! Parmesan or mozzarella would enhance the dish’s creaminess.
5. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Use low heat when adding the cream and stir continuously.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
   It’s not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
7. What can I use instead of cream?
   Substitute with coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or a milk-flour mixture for a lighter alternative.
8. Can I use canned tomatoes?
   Yes, canned diced tomatoes are a great substitute for fresh ones.
9. What herbs pair well with this dish?
   Basil, parsley, or thyme complement the flavors beautifully.
10. How can I make the sauce spicier?
    Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili to the sauce while cooking.