I need quick, easy meals to get through this season (… (or at any other time). This creamy peas-and-ham pasta was perfect for me. This recipe is inspired by the classic Italian dish Pasta alla Papalina and follows my favorite “formula” to make easy meals. It involves pasta, butter, Parmesan, and vegetables. This variation of the formula adds a few more ingredients for a richer finish. It’s also just as quick and easy.
What is Pasta with Peas and Ham?
This dish is super easy and based on the classic Italian Pasta alla Papalina. It features fettuccine with cured ham and peas in a creamy sauce that contains either Pecorino Romano or Parmesan. This budget-friendly version uses a diced steak of ham, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. This version is not as fancy, but it’s easy (read: no chopping!). It’s still delicious.
Ingredients for Pasta with Peas and Ham
Here’s a list of possible substitutes for each ingredient in this recipe.
Pasta We used ditalini because it was what we had on hand, and I thought that the shape would go well with the green peas. But you can use any pasta in your pantry. This is a great recipe to use up leftover pasta from boxes!
Sweet peas: You can use fresh or frozen peas. Add the peas a few minutes before the pasta is ready to cook. You can substitute peas for another green vegetable, such as broccoli or spinach.
Ham For extra flavor, I diced and browned a ham steak that I bought at the supermarket. Ham steaks are in the chilled packaged meat section next to the bacon. This dish can also be made with bacon, pancetta, or cured meat.
Heavy Cream and Butter: This dish is delicious because it uses full-fat dairy. However, if you don’t have heavy cream on hand, I’ve also made similar pasta dishes with only butter.
Parmesan: Parmesan gives the pasta a rich umami flavor. Use Pecorino romano or any other hard-aged cheese.
Pepper and Salt: The salt and pepper that I sprinkle over the pasta add a little flavor to each bite. If you like a little spice, add some red pepper flakes.
How are the LEFTOVERS being used?
These quick pasta dishes are best made when they’re fresh. Luckily, you can whip them up quickly, even if you are short on time. If you are reheating leftovers, you may want to add a little extra cream or milk.
Ingredients
8 oz. ditalini pasta* ($0.63)
One cup of frozen sweet peas is only $0.38
8 oz. Ham steak (2.50 dollars)
Salted Butter 1 Tbsp ($0.11)
Half cup heavy cream (0.75)
Parmesan, 1/4 cup grated (0.40 dollars)
1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper ($0.02)
1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)
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