What a great combination right? pasta, cream, Ham and bell peppers. Let me tell you, I grew up eating this salad, it was served at almost every Piñata (aka loud Mexican birthday party) I went. Now, every time I eat it I go back in time. It was such an amazing thing growing up going to birthday parties where the family cooked everything, from birthday cake to food, snack and party favors, such a beautiful tradition. I tried to do it myself with my own kids but, I gave up by birthday number four of my first child.
Now, let me tell you about this salad. I made it with Banza’s shell pasta. Banza makes their pasta with chickpeas and let me tell you, I was impressed! super delicious and just as easy to make as regular pasta, and also more protein, and fewer carbs. I did, however, seasoned the water the pasta was cooked in with more than salt. I know, I know that’s not how Italians cook their pasta but, I am not Italian and this is a Mexican recipe so, I seasoned it just like my mom and my aunt would. Chicken bouillon, bay leaf, and garlic. I also used my favorite Mexican crema, Cacique; diced cooked ham and bell pepper. Oh, It made my belly and my heart very happy.
Find the recipe below!
Creamy pasta salad with Ham/ Ensalada de conchitas con crema y Jamon.
Ingredients
- 1 8oz box Banza shell pasta
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema
- 1/8 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, cubed
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 celery stalk, diced
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the bay leaf, chicken bouillon and garlic.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse the pasta and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add the cooked ham, bell pepper, and celery.
- In a measuring cup or small bowl, mix together the Mexican crema, mayonnaise and salt and pepper. Pour over the pasta and mix everything until evenly coated.
- Chill until ready to serve.
- Enjoy!
Marisol, this sounds so good but I am not familiar with Mexican crema. Is it cream sauce with cilantro?
It is just a type of cream, like sour cream of Fraiche creme. Mexican crema has a thinner consistency and it is slightly sweet. Hope you try this salad! 🙂