A rich and flavorful pasta dish using Metti Paccheri, a smaller version of the traditional Paccheri, along with earthy mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and Grana Padano PDO cheese. Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- Metti Paccheri (or macaroni if unavailable): 320g
- Grana Padano PDO, grated: 80g
- Prosciutto (sliced into strips): 70g
- Mushrooms (your choice of variety, e.g., button or cremini): 500g
- Garlic (smashed): 1 clove
- Fresh thyme: 1 sprig
- Extra virgin olive oil: to taste
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Prosciutto: In a non-stick frying pan, heat a little extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and lightly sauté until it becomes crispy. Set aside.
- Cook the Mushrooms: In another pan, heat some extra virgin olive oil and add the smashed garlic. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for a few minutes. Add the fresh thyme leaves and continue cooking until the mushrooms are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Metti Paccheri until al dente. Drain, reserving some of the pasta cooking water.
- Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta to the mushroom mixture, stirring to coat the pasta well. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water and extra virgin olive oil to help create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
- Finish the Dish: Add the crispy prosciutto and grated Grana Padano PDO to the pasta. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and the dish becomes creamy.
Serve immediately.