Savory Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Delight

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a comforting meal that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness? Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory is just that dish—a warm embrace for your taste buds. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite infused with the smoky flavor of ham, the subtle sweetness of leeks, and the vibrant freshness of spinach. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a sense of joy and nostalgia to the dinner table.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe shines in its simplicity and rich flavors. The combination of savory ingredients allows for endless variations, making it perfect for any occasion. As you prepare this delightful dish, anticipate a burst of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; this is one meal that will become a staple in your household.

Key Ingredients For Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type like penne or fettuccine; they hold sauces beautifully.

• Cooked Ham: Choose quality ham for its smoky flavor; diced into small pieces for even distribution.

• Leeks: Select fresh leeks with vibrant green tops; their mild onion flavor enhances the dish.

• Fresh Spinach: Look for bright green leaves; baby spinach works well for its tenderness.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are preferred; they add aromatic depth to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a rich base; use it for sautéing vegetables.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese delivers an authentic flavor; sprinkle it generously before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve about half a cup of the cooking water.

Second Step : Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and minced garlic, cooking until soft—about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Third Step : Add Ham

Next, add the diced cooked ham to the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.

Fourth Step : Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, which takes about 2 minutes. Stir everything together to combine flavors.

Fifth Step : Combine Pasta

Now add the drained pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Sixth Step : Serve

Transfer to plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Pasta Cooking Tip: Always salt your boiling water generously; it enhances pasta flavor significantly.

• Ham Selection: Opt for leftover holiday ham or deli-style ham for convenience without sacrificing flavor.

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer different greens.

Enjoy making this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory! It promises satisfying meals filled with delightful flavors every time you serve it up.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Next, add diced ham and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly crisp.

Once the ham is ready, toss in fresh spinach and cook it just until wilted. This step enhances the dish’s flavor while retaining the vibrant green color of the spinach. As the pasta finishes cooking, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining it. Combine the drained pasta with the ham and leek mixture in the skillet.

To bring everything together, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in this savory blend. Serve hot for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory pairs beautifully with several side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread complements the savory flavors perfectly.

• Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch and balances out the richness of the dish.

• Wine: Pairing this dish with a light white wine elevates your dining experience.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory delivers a balanced mix of nutrients. It typically contains a good amount of protein from the ham while providing fiber from spinach and leeks. The carbohydrates from the pasta serve as a great energy source. Adjust portion sizes based on dietary needs or preferences.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop while adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! This Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory is versatile regarding pasta choices. You can use any shape you prefer—penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options work well. Each type will absorb flavors differently but will still create a delicious meal.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory by omitting the ham and replacing it with plant-based protein such as chickpeas or tofu. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

How can I enhance the flavor further?

To elevate your Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory even more, incorporate herbs like thyme or basil during cooking. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top also adds rich depth and creaminess that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers of this Pasta with Ham, Leeks and Spinach Recipe Savory for future meals. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container suitable for freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal flavor retention.

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Pasta with Ham, Leeks, and Spinach

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• Author: Rym
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting embrace of Pasta with Ham, Leeks, and Spinach. This delightful dish features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a savory mix of smoky ham, tender leeks, and fresh spinach, all brought together with aromatic garlic and olive oil. Simple yet satisfying, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Get ready to savor each bite as this meal quickly becomes a cherished favorite at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 2 medium leeks, sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water before draining.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and minced garlic; sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Ham: Stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 3 minutes until heated through.
4. Incorporate Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 30mg