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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta

Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta
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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta is a comforting and indulgent dish that perfectly balances the salty crunch of crispy pancetta with the sweet freshness of peas in a rich and velvety sauce. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, offering bold flavors and a satisfying texture that will make it a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

Pancetta and Vegetables

  • 4 oz pancetta, diced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later.
  2. Cook the pancetta: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Sauté garlic and peas: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to warm through and slightly soften without losing their bright green color.
  4. Prepare the creamy sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  5. Combine everything: Add the drained pasta and crispy pancetta to the sauce, tossing everything gently. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed, creating a smooth, creamy coating that clings beautifully to the noodles.

Notes

  • Use high-quality pancetta for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the peas; keep them vibrant and slightly firm.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor intensity.
  • Season gradually, as pancetta and Parmesan add saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, peas, pancetta, easy pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, Italian pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/creamy-pasta-with-peas-and-pancetta/