Cherry Glazed Ham Breakfast Pasta (Print Version)

Ham, pasta, and cherries combine with creamy eggs and herbs for a rich, flavorful morning meal.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 300g (10.5 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Cherry Glazed Ham

03 - 250g (9 oz) cooked ham, diced
04 - 120g (0.5 cup) cherry preserves
05 - 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
06 - 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
07 - 1 tbsp brown sugar

→ Eggs

08 - 4 large eggs
09 - 2 tbsp milk
10 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
11 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped
13 - 30g (0.25 cup) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Introduce the pasta and cook according to package directions until it achieves an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly, lightly coat with olive oil, and set aside.
02 - In a small saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until a smooth consistency is achieved. Allow to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the glaze has slightly thickened.
03 - Add the diced ham to the prepared cherry glaze. Stir to ensure the ham is evenly coated. Continue to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the ham is heated through and glistens with the glaze. Remove from heat and keep warm.
04 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Melt the butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring gently, just until the eggs are set and have a creamy consistency.
05 - In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cherry-glazed ham. Gently fold in the scrambled eggs to integrate them throughout the pasta mixture.
06 - Portion the assembled pasta onto individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve immediately for optimal enjoyment.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes
  • Uses simple ingredients in unexpected ways
  • Perfect for using leftover holiday ham
  • Creates a restaurant-quality breakfast at home
  • Combines sweet and savory flavors beautifully
02 -
  • High in protein from both ham and eggs
  • Perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings
  • Creates a wonderful use for leftover holiday ham
  • Can be prepared partially ahead for quicker morning assembly
  • Versatile recipe that works with different pasta shapes
03 -
  • The secret to this dish's success lies in timing and temperature control. Cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue absorbing moisture from the sauce.
  • When scrambling eggs, removing them from heat while still slightly underdone ensures they remain creamy in the final dish rather than becoming dry and rubbery.
  • I've learned through multiple iterations that the cherry glaze should be made in a larger saucepan than you might think necessary, as it bubbles enthusiastically during reduction.
  • Finally, assembly should happen quickly while components are still warm, but not piping hot, to prevent overcooking the eggs during the final combining stage.

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