Fresh Spring Pea & Prosciutto Pasta
Sweet Peas, Prosciutto, and Parmesan Sauce in Every Bite
Inspired by Italian springtime dishes, this Spring Pea & Prosciutto Pasta combines sweet peas, savory prosciutto, and a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce for a fresh, satisfying meal. Perfect for celebrating seasonal flavors with a touch of elegance.
Bright Spring Pea & Prosciutto Pasta – A Quick and Fresh 30-Minute Spring Pasta Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta, (such as spaghetti, linguine, fettucini, rigatoni or a mixture of)
- Salt, (for the pasta water)
For the Peas & Prosciutto:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas, (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz prosciutto, (sliced into thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Freshly ground black pepper, (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, (for garnish)
Instructions:
- 1
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
- 2
Prepare the Peas & Prosciutto:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and cook for 3-4 minutes until it crisps up and releases its fat.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the peas and lemon zest, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- 3
Make the Sauce:
- Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine with the prosciutto and peas. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- 4
Combine Pasta with Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the prosciutto and pea mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with black pepper to taste.
- 5
Serve:
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.
Equipment
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the prosciutto and use sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes instead for a vegetarian twist.
- Non-dairy Version: Use coconut cream or oat milk as a substitute for heavy cream and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Pro Tips:
- Reserve pasta water: Always save a cup of pasta water to help adjust the consistency of the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Crisp prosciutto: For an extra crispy texture, cook the prosciutto a little longer before adding the garlic.
- Lemon zest: For a brighter flavor, be sure to add the lemon zest just before serving to preserve its freshness.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen peas for this recipe?
- Yes! Frozen peas work just as well and will cook quickly once added to the pan.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutrition
| Calories | 520 |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 15g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Spring pea pasta is a dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the season, with fresh peas providing a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with salty prosciutto. This prosciutto pasta recipe is inspired by classic Italian springtime dishes, where seasonal ingredients like peas, asparagus, and fresh herbs shine. The addition of prosciutto elevates the dish with its savory and slightly crispy texture, while the cream and Parmesan create a rich and velvety sauce.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The key to making this quick pasta dinner is balancing the richness of the cream with the freshness of the peas and lemon zest. Cooking the prosciutto until crispy adds depth to the dish, while tossing the pasta in the creamy sauce ensures every bite is flavorful. The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a 30-minute pasta recipe that feels like a gourmet meal.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This dish is a wonderful example of how spring pasta recipes can be both light and satisfying. The peas add a pop of color, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this easy spring pasta is sure to impress.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Pasta: The base of the dish, providing texture and a neutral canvas for the creamy sauce.
- Prosciutto & Peas: The prosciutto provides a savory crunch, while the peas bring a bright, sweet element.
- Sauce: The rich cream and Parmesan create a smooth and indulgent coating for the pasta.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Dinner parties: A fresh, light option that’s sure to wow guests.
- Weeknight meals: A family pasta recipe that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal.
- Springtime meals: Celebrate the season with a dish that features the best of spring ingredients.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This light pasta recipe combines fresh peas and prosciutto for a flavorful and balanced dish. With just a few ingredients, you can make a meal that feels special yet is simple enough for any occasion. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the bright flavors of spring, making it the perfect addition to your pasta repertoire.
