Pasta Bake with Vegetables and Smoked Meat

This delightful pasta bake is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings together the comforting textures of pasta with the savory taste of smoked meat and fresh vegetables. The star of the show is the interplay of flavors between the crispy smoked meat, sweet carrots, and the aromatic blend of onions and garlic. To tie everything together, a rich soy sauce and potato starch mix infuses the pasta, creating a velvety texture and umami profile that's sure to please the palate. It's a quick and convenient recipe to prepare, needing just 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're looking for a go-to weeknight meal or something special to serve guests, this dish caters to various occasions. Its flexibility also allows for adjustments so it can suit different dietary preferences and tastes. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. Following the essential steps and tips below will ensure the best results. Serve it with a simple side salad or a slice of crusty bread to complete a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

320 g pasta (your choice)
4 slices smoked meat
2 small onions
2 cloves garlic
2 carrots
10 tablespoons canned green peas

Sauces and Spices

8 teaspoons soy sauce
4 teaspoons potato starch
Salt
Pepper
Fresh herbs for garnish

Preparation Time

Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

**Cook the pasta** in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Chop the onions and crush the garlic cloves. Heat a pan with a bit of oil and **sauté the onions and garlic** until they begin to soften.
Add grated carrots and sliced smoked meat to the pan. **Continue sautéing** until the carrots are soft and the meat is lightly browned.
Mix the sautéed vegetables and meat with the cooked pasta in a large bowl, then add the canned green peas. Stir well to combine.
**Season the mixture** with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring an even distribution throughout the pasta.
In a small bowl, combine the potato starch with the soy sauce, stirring until it becomes a smooth paste.
Add the soy sauce mixture to the pasta and mix thoroughly until everything is well-coated.
Grease a baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking, then transfer the pasta mixture into it, spreading it evenly across the dish.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the baking dish on the middle rack and **bake for 15-20 minutes**, or until the top is slightly crispy and golden brown.
Upon removal from the oven, sprinkle the baked pasta generously with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added fragrance and color.
Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to ensure the slices hold together when plated.

Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute the smoked meat with mushrooms or a plant-based alternative.
Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist or dietary needs.
Adding cheese on top before baking can provide a deliciously creamy and golden crust.

Nutritions

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 10g
Carbs: 68g

Variations

Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix for extra flavor and nutrients.
Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, or with coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a richer taste, such as cheddar or gouda.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the flavors.
A piece of crusty garlic bread can soak up any remaining sauce on the plate.
Pair with a glass of full-bodied red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Best Places

Pasta Idea Café - Cozy spot known for its creative pasta dishes. Location: 123 Pasta Lane, Rome, Italy.
Bake and Flour - Offers a variety of baked pasta creations. Location: 55 Gourmet Street, Paris, France.
Vegas Buon Appetito - A family-friendly eatery specializing in Italian classics. Location: 789 Sin City Blvd, Las Vegas, USA.
La Carbonaia - Italian restaurant renowned for its authentic pasta bakes. Location: 24 Olive Grove, Naples, Italy.
Oven Magic - Known for its traditional and eclectic pasta bake offerings. Location: 67 culinary Avenue, Barcelona, Spain.
Just Baked Bistro - Creative interpretations of classic pasta bakes. Location: 102 Food Court, Sydney, Australia.
The Pasta Kitchen - Offers gourmet pasta dishes in a casual setting. Location: 89 Noodle Rd, New York, USA.
Fratelli Italiani - Homely, authentic dining experience with a focus on baked pasta. Location: 12 Bella Street, Florence, Italy.
Herb and Cheese - Modern bistro with a wide variety of pasta bakes. Location: 77 Cheese Lane, Toronto, Canada.
Pasta Lover’s Deli - Celebrated for its hearty and innovative pasta casseroles. Location: 45 Rialto Road, Venice, Italy.