If you're in the mood for a quick yet decadent meal that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, look no further than this Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, savory dish that will impress your family and friends alike. Picture perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, crispy prosciutto, and vibrant peas—it's a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pasta of choice
- Prosciutto
- Frozen peas
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: pasta of your choice (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti), prosciutto, frozen peas, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- While the water is heating, finely chop 2-3 cloves of garlic. Set aside.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Next, add the prosciutto to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly crispy.
- Once the prosciutto is crispy, add 1 cup of frozen peas to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the cream, prosciutto, and peas. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Grate about ½ cup of Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it over the pasta. Toss again to ensure the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Prosciutto and Peas!
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta will do, consider using fettuccine or tagliatelle for a more luxurious experience. The wider noodles will hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: When boiling the pasta, make sure to add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself.
- Crisp the Prosciutto: For the best texture, let the prosciutto cook until it’s slightly crispy. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce's consistency and help it adhere to the pasta.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged. It melts better and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just toss them in with the peas for a few minutes to cook through.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so make sure to serve it right after tossing everything together to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 65mg
