Ham Pea Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Ham pea pasta: a symphony of savory ham, sweet peas, and perfectly cooked pasta, all harmonizing in a creamy, comforting sauce. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch.

While the exact origins of ham pea pasta are a bit hazy, the combination of ham and peas has been a culinary staple for centuries, particularly in European cuisines. Think of classic dishes like split pea soup with ham or the traditional English pairing of ham and peas. This pasta dish simply elevates those familiar flavors into a more substantial and satisfying meal.

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The salty, smoky ham complements the sweetness of the peas, while the pasta provides a comforting base. The creamy sauce ties everything together, creating a truly irresistible experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with different types of pasta, cheeses, or herbs to suit your preferences. And let’s be honest, who can resist a dish that’s both delicious and ready in under 30 minutes? Get ready to experience the magic of this classic combination!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is crucial for flavoring the pasta itself, so don’t skip it! I usually add about a tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, and it refers to pasta that is firm and slightly chewy when bitten. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and less enjoyable.
3. While the pasta is cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold! We’ll use it later to help create a creamy and emulsified sauce.
4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t rinse the pasta unless you’re making a cold pasta salad. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Preparing the Ham and Pea Sauce

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate the pasta later.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. You want the onions to be sweet and fragrant, not browned.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until lightly browned and heated through. The ham will add a savory and salty flavor to the sauce.
5. Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can use fresh peas if you prefer, but frozen peas are a convenient and readily available option.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Simmering the cream will help it reduce and concentrate the flavors.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The Parmesan cheese will add a salty and nutty flavor to the sauce, as well as help thicken it.
8. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be sure to taste the sauce before adding salt, as the ham and Parmesan cheese are already quite salty. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help thin the sauce and create a creamy emulsion.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.

Serving the Ham and Pea Pasta

1. Serve the ham and pea pasta immediately.
2. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
3. This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Pasta Shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rotini, and farfalle are all good choices, but you could also use spaghetti, linguine, or even shells.
• Ham: You can use any type of cooked ham you like, such as leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or even prosciutto. If you’re using prosciutto, add it at the very end of cooking to prevent it from becoming too crispy.
• Peas: Fresh or frozen peas both work well in this recipe. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two before adding them to the sauce.
• Cheese: Parmesan cheese is the classic choice for this dish, but you could also use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
• Cream: Heavy cream is the richest and most decadent option, but you can also use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. If using milk, you may need to add a little cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken the sauce.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as mushrooms, asparagus, or spinach.
• Spice: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce to your serving.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Why this recipe works:

This Ham and Pea Pasta recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. The combination of savory ham, sweet peas, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta is simply irresistible. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor, while the fresh parsley provides a bright and vibrant contrast. This recipe is also very versatile, so you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. The use of reserved pasta water is key to creating a perfectly emulsified and creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g

Serving Suggestions:

This Ham and Pea Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would be a perfect accompaniment.

Conclusion:

This ham pea pasta recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant, flavorful, and comforting dish that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. The creamy sauce, the salty ham, and the sweet burst of peas create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, even with picky eaters! But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a richer, more decadent experience, try adding a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the sauce just before serving. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a splash of pasta water. Want to kick up the spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a delightful warmth to the dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding other vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. The possibilities are endless! Serving suggestions? This ham pea pasta is fantastic on its own as a complete meal. However, it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. For a more elegant presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It’s also a fantastic dish to bring to potlucks or picnics, as it travels well and can be served hot or cold. And don’t forget about leftovers! This pasta is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or a quick and easy lunch. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to enjoy. I truly believe you’ll fall in love with this recipe as much as I have. It’s a comforting classic with a modern twist, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this ham pea pasta is sure to impress. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll create a delicious and memorable meal. But most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos, comments, and feedback in the comments section below. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Your insights and suggestions will not only help me improve the recipe but also inspire other home cooks to try it out. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this delightful ham pea pasta as much as I do! I can’t wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create! Remember to tag me in your photos on social media so I can see your creations! I’m excited to see your take on this classic dish. Print