Are you craving a delicious, yet effortlessly elegant meal? Look no further! This prosciutto and pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a sophisticated weekend dinner. It's a simple dish that bursts with flavor, showcasing the salty richness of prosciutto alongside perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking – transforming humble ingredients into a truly memorable experience. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients: What You'll Need for This Easy Recipe
This recipe serves 2-3 people and can be easily scaled up or down.
- 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Quick and Delicious Meal
This easy recipe comes together in a flash. Let's get cooking!
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Prosciutto: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using white wine, add it to the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds extra flavor and richness.
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Create the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in the crispy prosciutto. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When cooking the prosciutto, work in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Al dente pasta: Perfectly cooked pasta is crucial. It should be firm to the bite, not mushy.
- Fresh ingredients: Using fresh parsley and high-quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavor of the dish significantly.
Variations: Explore Your Culinary Creativity
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest adds brightness and acidity.
- Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach or mushrooms would be a delicious addition.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Fat: 30-40g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This prosciutto and pasta recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of salty prosciutto and creamy pasta – a true taste sensation! It's a quick dinner idea that even beginner cooks can master. Try it today and let us know what you think!