Best 2 Spanish Ham And Manchego Pasta Salad Recipes

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**Indulge in a Culinary Journey with Spanish Ham and Manchego Pasta Salad: A Symphony of Flavors**

In the realm of culinary delights, the Spanish ham and Manchego pasta salad stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of flavors. This delectable dish, rooted in the vibrant culinary traditions of Spain, captivates taste buds with its symphony of textures and a burst of Mediterranean flair. Embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the secrets behind this tantalizing salad, uncovering the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy notes that make it an instant favorite.

**A Culinary Tapestry: Unveiling the Symphony of Flavors**

1. **Spanish Ham: A Journey Through Taste**

- Discover the exquisite Jamón Serrano, a dry-cured ham renowned for its nutty, slightly salty flavor profile.
- Savor the melt-in-your-mouth texture of Jamón Ibérico, a premium ham prized for its rich, complex flavor.

2. **Manchego Cheese: A Symphony of Textures**

- Experience the unique texture of Manchego cheese, a semi-firm cheese crafted from sheep's milk.
- Delight in its buttery, smooth texture and savor the nutty, slightly tangy flavor.

3. **Sun-Kissed Vegetables: A Splash of Color and Vitality**

- Bite into the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, bursting with summery flavors.
- Crisp and refreshing bell peppers add a vibrant crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Tender asparagus spears contribute a touch of elegance and a delicate earthy flavor.

4. **Perfectly Al Dente Pasta: The Foundation of the Dish**

- Choose your favorite pasta shape, from classic penne to vibrant fusilli, each contributing its own delightful texture.
- Cook the pasta to al dente perfection, ensuring a satisfying bite that holds the flavors of the salad.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

MANCHEGO AND HAM CROQUETAS



Manchego and Ham Croquetas image

Provided by Jose Garces

Time 2h15m

Yield about 40 croquetas

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 1/2 teaspoons finely diced onion
1 1/2 teaspoons finely diced red bell pepper
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
5 ounces serrano ham, finely diced (about 1 cup)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, plus more for dredging
2 cups whole milk
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup grated manchego cheese (about 4 ounces)
1 1/4-ounce packet unflavored gelatin powder
3 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
Canola oil, for frying

Steps:

  • Cook the onion and bell pepper in the olive oil in a saucepan over low heat, stirring, until soft, about 10 minutes. Add the ham and cook, stirring, 10 more minutes. Add the butter and let melt, then add the smoked paprika and flour and cook, stirring, about 5 minutes. Whisk in 1 3/4 cups milk and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring, until thick, 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and stir in the manchego until melted.
  • Scatter the gelatin over the remaining 1/4 cup milk in a bowl and set aside, 5 minutes. Whisk the gelatin mixture until smooth, then stir into the cheese mixture. Transfer to a shallow baking dish and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Put some flour in a shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in another bowl and put the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture and form into a football shape. Dredge in the flour, then dip in the eggs and roll in the breadcrumbs. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat to make about 40 croquetas. Refrigerate until ready to fry.
  • Heat about 2 inches of canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 360 degrees F. Working in batches, fry the croquetas until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt.

30-MINUTE HAM AND PASTA SALAD



30-Minute Ham and Pasta Salad image

Turn leftover ham into the main attraction, with plenty of fresh veggies and yummy pasta tossed with ranch dressing.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 30m

Yield 9

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 cups uncooked small shell pasta (12 oz)
2 cups frozen sweet peas
3 cups diced cooked ham
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup dill pickle relish, drained
8 oz Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend, diced (2 cups)
3/4 cup mayonnaise
3/4 cup ranch salad dressing
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Cook and drain pasta as directed on package, adding peas during last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking time. Rinse with cold water to cool. Drain well.
  • Meanwhile, in large bowl, mix ham, celery, bell pepper, pickle relish and cheese. In small bowl, mix remaining ingredients.
  • Add pasta and peas to salad; stir gently to mix. Add mayonnaise mixture; toss to coat. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until serving time.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 600, Carbohydrate 40 g, Cholesterol 65 mg, Fat 4 1/2, Fiber 3 g, Protein 24 g, SaturatedFat 10 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 1470 mg, Sugar 4 g, TransFat 0 g

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
  • If you can't find manchego cheese, you can substitute another hard cheese, such as parmesan or asiago.
  • For a more flavorful salad, use a combination of red and yellow bell peppers.
  • If you don't have any cooked ham, you can use deli ham or prosciutto.
  • To make the salad ahead of time, cook the pasta and vegetables and let them cool completely. Then, add the ham, cheese, and dressing just before serving.

Conclusion:

Spanish ham and manchego pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. With its combination of salty ham, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This refreshing and flavorful salad is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Spain. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is sure to be a hit. So next time you're looking for a light and easy meal, give Spanish ham and manchego pasta salad a try. You won't be disappointed!

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