Pasta with prosciutto and peas

Pasta with prosciutto and peas – a feast for the senses

Welcome to the delicious world of pasta! Today, I invite you to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines crispy prosciutto with sweet peas and a velvety cream sauce. This recipe for pasta with prosciutto and peas is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that you can prepare in just 30 minutes. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

I. Required ingredients

To achieve the best pasta with prosciutto and peas, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

- 350 g pasta (choose your favorite type: spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 100 g prosciutto (in cubes or thin slices)
- 50 g peas (you can use canned peas or fresh peas, pre-cooked)
- 50 ml cream (opt for high-fat cream for a richer taste)
- A cube of butter (about 20 g)
- A handful of fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan, to preference (for serving)

II. The story of the recipe

Pasta is a versatile and beloved food around the world, with deep roots in history. This simple recipe with prosciutto and peas evokes not only delicious flavor but also the idea of comfort and conviviality. Whether it's a weekend evening or an ordinary day, this recipe promises to bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones.

III. Preparation technique

1. Start by boiling the pasta. Put a large pot of water on the heat, add salt, and wait until the water reaches a boiling point. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them but reserve a cup of the cooking water, as it can be used later to adjust the sauce.

2. While the pasta is boiling, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, add the cube of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the prosciutto cut into cubes or slices. Cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its delicious aroma.

3. Add the peas to the skillet. If using canned peas, make sure they are well drained. If using fresh peas, ensure they have been pre-cooked. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently so that the ingredients combine well.

4. Now it's time to add the cream. Pour the cream over the mixture in the skillet and stir well, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a ladle of the pasta cooking water to thin it out.

5. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix well, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh parsley.

6. At the end, add grated Parmesan to preference. Stir gently and get ready to enjoy a special dish.

IV. Serving suggestions and variations

Serve the pasta with prosciutto and peas hot, sprinkled with a little fresh parsley and grated Parmesan on top. This pasta is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or a Caprese salad, and for a touch of freshness, you can add a few lemon slices on the plate.

If you want to bring a touch of creativity to the recipe, you can experiment with different ingredients. Replace prosciutto with pancetta or bacon, and peas with asparagus for a crunchier version. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of flavor.

V. Nutritional benefits

This recipe for pasta with prosciutto and peas is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins C and K, while prosciutto provides a quality protein boost. The pasta serves as the energy base of the dish, ensuring you have the energy needed for a full day.

VI. Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent alternative, bringing extra fiber and nutrients.

2. How can I make the recipe lighter?
For a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of cream or replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce with prosciutto and peas in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just heat it up and add the cooked pasta.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or prosecco are excellent choices to accompany pasta with prosciutto and peas.

VII. Personal note

This recipe for pasta with prosciutto and peas reminds me of evenings spent with family, enjoying simple yet flavorful meals. I encourage you to bring your own personal touch to the dishes and share joyful moments with your loved ones. So, enjoy every bite and let the aroma of this dish delight your senses!

Now that you have all the necessary information, I invite you to start cooking! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 4 people: -350g pasta boiled in salted water -100g prosciutto in cubes or slices -50g peas -50ml sour cream -parsley, salt, pepper; -a cube of butter and parmesan to taste