Renowned TV chef Mary Berry has unveiled a remarkably simple pasta dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes, using only seven basic ingredients. This recipe has garnered widespread praise from home cooks and is ideal for busy weeknights or informal gatherings.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Mary Berry describes this pasta supper as her go-to standby, emphasising its delicious flavour and universal appeal. She notes, "This is my standby pasta supper as it is so delicious, so quick, and everyone loves it. Great for everyday or for casual supper parties too." The dish combines a creamy crème fraîche sauce with crispy Parma ham and mushrooms, creating a rich texture and taste.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Notes
The recipe calls for 350g of penne pasta, two 80g packs of Parma ham snipped into pieces, 250g of small brown chestnut mushrooms, 200g of full-fat crème fraîche, 100g of grated Parmesan, two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Importantly, this dish is nut-free and pregnancy-friendly, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Simple Three-Step Method
Step 1: Boil salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside once done.
Step 2: Heat a frying pan, add the Parma ham, and fry until crispy. Reserve half of the ham, then add mushrooms to the pan and fry for two minutes. Stir in crème fraîche, bring to a boil, then mix in the pasta, Parmesan, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, and top with the reserved crispy ham.
Step 3: Serve immediately with a green salad and crunchy bread for a complete meal.
Expert Tips and Variations
Mary Berry offers practical advice for adapting the recipe. If using reduced-fat crème fraîche, add it at the end of cooking to prevent splitting. For special occasions, she suggests adding asparagus tips four minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, then draining them together. This versatile dish serves six people, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
The recipe's simplicity and speed have made it a favourite among home cooks, proving that a flavourful, impressive meal doesn't require extensive time or ingredients. Mary Berry's approach continues to demystify cooking, offering accessible solutions for everyday dining.
