Ham And Asparagus Pasta

This comforting Ham and Asparagus Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that balances savory, salty, and fresh flavors. The dish features tender pasta cooked alongside crisp-tender asparagus spears and bite-sized strips of lean ham. These are tossed in a unique, creamy sauce made by simmering stewed tomatoes with herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano, then finishing with evaporated milk for richness. The addition of sweet pepper adds a subtle crunch and brightness. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something warm, flavorful, and home-cooked without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of Italian flair.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Advanced

Servings: 4

Calories: 17.0

Description

This comforting Ham and Asparagus Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that balances savory, salty, and fresh flavors. The dish features tender pasta cooked alongside crisp-tender asparagus spears and bite-sized strips of lean ham. These are tossed in a unique, creamy sauce made by simmering stewed tomatoes with herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano, then finishing with evaporated milk for richness. The addition of sweet pepper adds a subtle crunch and brightness. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something warm, flavorful, and home-cooked without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of Italian flair.

Ingredients

3/4 pound Fresh asparagus spears or

Directions

1
Snap off and discard the woody bases from the fresh asparagus spears.
2
Bias-slice the asparagus into 1-inch pieces. If using frozen asparagus, thaw and drain it well.
3
Cut the lean fully cooked ham into bite-size strips.
4
Cut the red or green sweet pepper into thin strips.
5
In a medium saucepan, combine the stewed tomatoes, dried parsley, basil, oregano, and ground red pepper (if using).
6
Bring the tomato mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
7
Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce, uncovered, for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to 2-1/2 cups.
8
Stir in the evaporated milk all at once. Heat gently until hot but do not let the sauce boil. Set aside.
9
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the multicolored pasta and cook according to package directions.
10
During the last 4 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the asparagus, ham strips, and sweet pepper to the boiling water.
11
Drain the pasta and vegetable mixture well.
12
Place the hot pasta mixture on a serving platter.
13
Spoon the warm tomato-milk sauce evenly over the pasta.
14
Serve immediately, sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 17.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.7mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 3.3g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.8g8%
Sugars 1.6g
Protein 1.9g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Substitutions: You can use fresh basil and parsley instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor. Fresh ham or Canadian bacon works well in place of standard lean ham.

Tip: Do not let the sauce boil after adding the milk, as this may cause it to curdle. Keep the heat low when warming the sauce.

Keywords: ham, asparagus, pasta, italian, tomato sauce, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, vegetables, herbs, parmesan, quick meals, family friendly, savory

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/ham-and-asparagus-pasta/