When you think of comfort food, imagine the delightful aroma of pasta mixed with crispy prosciutto and tender broccoli wafting through your kitchen. This dish is a heavenly combination of flavors and textures that will make you swoon with every bite. perfect side dish for pasta The sweet, nutty broccoli dances alongside the salty, crunchy prosciutto, while perfectly cooked pasta ties everything together in a warm embrace. It’s like a cozy hug from your favorite sweater on a chilly day.
Picture this: you’re winding down after a long day, and the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. But then, this pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli winks at you from your recipe book—calling your name! Whether it’s a family dinner or a solo treat after a tiring week, this dish brings happiness to any occasion. twice baked potato bites Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it part of your regular rotation.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli is easy to prepare and full of flavor
- It looks beautiful on the plate, making it perfect for entertaining
- The dish is versatile enough for quick weeknight dinners or more elaborate gatherings
- You can customize the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry!
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends—they were impressed and asked for seconds faster than I could say “pasta.”
Essential Ingredients
For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Cream Sauce Pasta recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or fettuccine work wonderfully! Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Crispy Prosciutto: Choose high-quality prosciutto for maximum flavor; crisp it up in the pan for that delightful crunch.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition; steam or sauté them until bright green and tender.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic kick; chop finely to release their essential oils while cooking.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; its fruity flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and saltiness; feel free to sprinkle generously!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended for those who enjoy a spicy kick; adjust according to personal preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve some cooking water.
Crisp the Prosciutto: In a large skillet over medium heat, add slices of prosciutto. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet used for prosciutto, add olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before adding broccoli florets. Sauté until bright green and slightly tender.
Toss Everything Together: Return drained pasta to the skillet with broccoli and garlic mix. Add crispy prosciutto along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help bind everything together.
Add Cheese and Flavorings: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture along with red pepper flakes if using. creamy garlic Brussels sprouts Toss gently until everything is well combined, creating a creamy texture throughout.
Serve Hot!: Plate your masterpiece immediately while it’s still warm. Top off with extra Parmesan if desired, garnishing with cracked black pepper for added flavor.
Now that you’ve made this delightful pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli, gather around the table with family or friends! Enjoy each bite filled with laughter as you share stories over this delicious meal that only took minutes to prepare—but tastes like gourmet cuisine! For more inspiration, check out this Anna Paul’s Turkish Pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli is not just delicious; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures
- The crispy prosciutto adds a salty crunch, while the roasted broccoli brings a subtle sweetness
- Cooking this dish will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the broccoli, then cook the pasta while crisping the prosciutto for maximum flavor. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed without overcooking any ingredient.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for asparagus or add garlic for an extra punch. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your meal. balsamic roasted asparagus.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect pasta, always salt your water generously; it enhances flavor significantly
- Use fresh broccoli for better texture and taste, and avoid overcooking it to keep its vibrant color
- Make sure the prosciutto is crispy before combining to avoid sogginess
Sharing a plate of this pasta with friends turned into an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and compliments that warmed my heart. They were convinced I was a gourmet chef!
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any pasta shape works well; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit prosciutto and replace it with sautéed mushrooms for flavor.
What wine pairs best with pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli?
A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements this dish beautifully, enhancing flavors.
Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of pasta with crispy prosciutto and broccoli. This delightful dish combines perfectly cooked pasta, crunchy prosciutto, and vibrant broccoli, creating a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal that impresses every time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti (or fettuccine)
- 4 oz prosciutto
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving some cooking water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook prosciutto until crispy (3-4 minutes per side). Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add broccoli and sauté until bright green and tender.
- Toss in the drained pasta with broccoli and garlic mix. Add crispy prosciutto and reserved pasta water to combine.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes over the mixture; toss gently to create a creamy texture.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
