A refreshing pasta dish featuring zesty lemon, savoury ham, and peppery arugula for a delightful meal.
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Instructions
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Pro tip: The reserved pasta water helps emulsify the sauce.
Prepare the sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Add lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine.
Pro tip: Be careful not to brown the garlic.
Add the ham
Add the sliced ham to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Pro tip: Ensure the ham is evenly distributed in the skillet.
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss with the sauce and ham, gradually adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Pro tip: Tossing helps the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
Incorporate Parmesan cheese
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until melted and combined.
Pro tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavour.
Finish with arugula
Remove from heat and fold in arugula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro tip: Add arugula just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavour.
- Choose a good quality ham for enhanced taste.
- Arugula adds a peppery note; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan for a richer finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of ham is best for lemon pasta?
Use a good quality, thinly sliced ham for the best flavour, such as prosciutto or a lean baked ham.
Can I substitute arugula with another green?
Yes, spinach or baby kale can be used as substitutes for arugula.
How long does this pasta dish last in the fridge?
The pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What kind of pasta works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal choices for this recipe, but any long pasta will do.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?
You can omit the ham and add more vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
450
Calories
24g
Protein
18g
Fat
50g
Carbs
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Kitchen & BBQ gear
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