Hey, pasta fans!
Today, I’m sharing a beloved recipe: Tagliatelle with Prosciutto and Grana Padano. It’s a classic comfort dish that’s easy to make and always hits the spot.
Imagine tender tagliatelle noodles coated in a flavorful sauce made with Prosciutto, buttery onions, and Grana Padano cheese. It’s simple, tasty, and sure to be a hit at your table.
Let’s get cooking!
Tagliatelle with Prosciutto Cotto and Grana Padano
Course: MainCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes500
kcalTagliatelle with Prosciutto Cotto is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring tender slices of cooked ham in a rich, buttery sauce.
This recipe promises a burst of flavor with every bite, complemented by the subtle sharpness of Grana Padano cheese. Perfect for any pasta lover craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal.
Ingredients
1 pound 2 ounces Tagliatelle
5 ounces Prosciutto Cotto
2 ounces unsalted butter
1/2 white onion
4 ounces Grana Padano
freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- Separate the fat from the lean part of the Prosciutto Cotto and dice both.
- Melt 2 ounces of unsalted butter in a skillet.
- Add minced white onion and the diced Prosciutto fat, and cook until golden.
- Add diced Prosciutto and cook for 3 minutes, then season with black pepper.
- Meanwhile, cook the tagliatelle in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Place the cooked tagliatelle in a serving bowl, toss with half of the sauce, and season with pepper.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Grana Padano on top, stir well, and serve hot with the remaining sauce poured over.
Notes
- Proper Cooking Time: Cook the tagliatelle until al dente to achieve the perfect texture, neither too firm nor too soft.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust the seasoning carefully, as the prosciutto and Grana Padano cheese already bring salty notes to the dish.
- Sauce Distribution: When tossing the cooked tagliatelle with the sauce, ensure it is evenly coated to distribute the flavors throughout the dish.
- Garnish: Consider adding a final sprinkle of freshly grated Grana Padano cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ Tagliatelle with Prosciutto Cotto and Grana Padano:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, but tagliatelle works best for its wide, flat shape that holds the sauce well.
2. Can I substitute the Prosciutto Cotto with another type of ham?
While Prosciutto Cotto adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with pancetta or cooked ham if needed.
3. How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and add a splash of olive oil to the boiling water before adding the pasta.
4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before tossing it with the cooked pasta.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Prosciutto Cotto and add more flavor with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
6. How can I adjust the recipe to make it more suitable for children?
You can reduce the black pepper in the sauce or serve the pasta without the pepper on top for a milder flavor.
7. Can I use pre-grated cheese instead of grating it fresh?
While freshly grated cheese offers the best flavor and texture, pre-grated cheese can be a time-saving alternative.
8. Is it necessary to use unsalted butter, or can I use salted butter instead?
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better. However, if you only have salted butter on hand, you can adjust the amount of additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
9. How long does it take to cook the tagliatelle until al dente?
Cooking time can vary depending on the brand and thickness of the pasta. Follow the instructions on the package and taste the pasta for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time.
10. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as a substitute for traditional tagliatelle if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. Adjust cooking times as needed according to the package instructions.
