Recipes

Cucina Povera Tagliatelle

Rustic Tagliatelle with Ham, Olives & Cherry TomatoesTranslated kitchen of the poor. A traditional Italian cooking style dish that uses simple yet affordable ingredients made using our air dried ham.Ingredients (Serves 2)2 tbsp olive oil1 clove garlic, crushed50g pack of air dried ham30g cherry tomatoes, halved30g pitted olives (mixed green & black)200g tagliatelle20g parmigiano reggiano, gratedExtra virgin olive oil (to finish)MethodPrepare the ingredients:Slice the ham into squares around one inch long. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside.Boil the pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tagliatelle according to the packet instructions until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water before draining.Start the base:While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.Cook the ham:Add the ham pieces to the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Stir occasionally.Add tomatoes & olives:Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and the pitted olives. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release some juice.Combine with pasta:Add the drained tagliatelle directly into the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the ingredients coat evenly.Finish the dish:Remove from heat. Add grated Parmigiano Reggiano and toss gently. Plate up and drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.To serve:Top with an extra sprinkle of Parmigiano and a grind of black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while hot.Recipe & photo compliments of Jonathan Henry aka The Plastic Italian