Creamy Penne al Baffo with Prosciutto and Fresh Parsley

Penne al Baffo – A Delicious and Creamy Pasta Dish

Penne al Baffo is a comforting and creamy Italian pasta dish that combines tender whole wheat penne with a rich, flavorful sauce made from ham, fresh cream, and a touch of tomato. This classic dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The subtle balance of savory prosciutto, smooth cream, and fresh parsley will elevate your pasta experience and leave everyone craving more.

Serves: 4

Category: Pasta

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Begin by finely chopping the parsley. Set it aside for later. Then, slice the prosciutto cotto into thin strips, ensuring the ham can easily incorporate into the sauce.

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2. Boil the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later.

3. Make the Sauce:
   While the pasta cooks, heat a large pan over medium heat and add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced prosciutto and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing it to crisp slightly and release its flavors.

4. Add the Cream and Tomato:
   Pour in the fresh cream and stir to combine with the prosciutto. Then, add the passata di pomodoro (tomato puree), mixing well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Season the Sauce:
   Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the prosciutto will add some saltiness to the dish, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the pan with the sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

7. Finish with Fresh Parsley:
   Sprinkle the finely chopped parsley over the pasta, mixing it in to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

8. Serve:
   Serve your Penne al Baffo immediately, garnishing with additional black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread and a light salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Substitute for Prosciutto: If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can use pancetta, bacon, or even a plant-based alternative to ham for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the black pepper.
• Use Heavy Cream for a Richer Sauce: While fresh cream works wonderfully, you can substitute with heavy cream for a richer, more indulgent sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply swap the whole wheat penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Conclusion

Penne al Baffo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that can easily become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it offers a satisfying and flavorful meal without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and delight with every bite.