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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta

Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta: A Cozy Weeknight Winner

This Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta is a quick, comforting dinner that combines rich cream, sweet peas, and savory pancetta.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta like fettuccine or penne
For the Pancetta and Vegetables
  • 4 oz pancetta bacon can be a substitute
  • 1 cup frozen peas fresh peas are a great alternative when in season
  • 2 cloves garlic freshly minced
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream half-and-half can make it lighter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino or mozzarella
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil
For Seasoning and Garnish
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve a cup of cooking water and drain the pasta.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta and cook for 5–7 minutes until crispy and golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring gently for 2–3 minutes until it begins to bubble.
  5. Add thawed peas to the sauce and heat for another 2–3 minutes.
  6. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Fold in crispy pancetta, reserving some for garnish. Mix until well combined.
  9. Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh peas for the best flavor and avoid overcooking the pasta. Adjust the amount of cream based on preference for richness.

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