Straw Hay
A creamy ham and mushroom linguini dish with peas and Parmesan, featuring rich flavors and smooth textures, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil linguini in salted water; drain.
- Add butter, cooked ham, peas, and drained sliced mushrooms to the pasta.
- In a small bowl, beat egg yolks and cream with a fork until foamy.
- Slowly add the cream mixture to the linguini and stir well.
- Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Cook gently over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Add the remaining Parmesan cheese and stir.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots when combining the ham, peas, and mushrooms with the pasta. If you want a lighter dish, substitute half of the butter with olive oil. If you're short on time, pre-cooked linguini can be used, but be careful not to overcook it when mixing in the other ingredients. This dish is reminiscent of Spaghetti Carbonaro in its creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian Ham Pie or roasted vegetables to enhance the meal's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Straw Hay contains roughly 390 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the linguini with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. For gluten-free options, consider using gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn, though the texture may vary.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add chickpeas for protein. The creamy sauce will still provide a rich flavor that complements the pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them and gently heat them together on the stove. However, it's best to avoid mixing everything until just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).