Name: Ham Pea Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
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; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 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; Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Ham pea pasta: it's the ultimate comfort food that comes together faster than you can say "dinner's ready!" I don't know about you, but I'm always on the lookout for quick, satisfying meals that the whole family will devour. This creamy, flavorful pasta dish is exactly that – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch.

While the exact origins of ham pea pasta are a bit murky, 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 version simply elevates those familiar flavors into a complete and satisfying meal. It's a celebration of simple ingredients, transformed into something truly special.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The salty, savory ham complements the sweetness of the peas, while the creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta in pure deliciousness. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can use different types of pasta, add other vegetables, or even sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover ham! So, are you ready to discover your new favorite pasta recipe? Let's get cooking!

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
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 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
Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Cooking the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is important; it seasons the pasta from the inside out! Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. "Al dente" means "to the tooth" in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but not hard. Usually, this is about 8-10 minutes, but check the package instructions for the specific type of pasta you're using.
Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is liquid gold! It helps to create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Trust me, you'll want it.
Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Don't rinse the pasta unless you're making a cold pasta salad. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

Preparing the Ham and Pea Sauce:

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 all the pasta later.
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 soft and sweet, not browned.
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. The aroma should be intoxicating!
Add the diced cooked ham to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until lightly browned. This step adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish. You can use leftover ham, deli ham, or even ham steaks cut into cubes.
Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. No need to thaw the peas beforehand; they'll cook quickly in the skillet.

Bringing it All Together:

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. The cream will create a rich and luscious sauce. If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won't be as thick.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the ham and Parmesan cheese are already salty. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Make sure all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy ham and pea sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. The pasta water will help to loosen the sauce and create a beautiful, glossy finish.
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the ham and pea pasta immediately. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
For a more complete meal, add some grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container 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 when reheating.

Variations and Tips:

Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyere.
Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.
Use Fresh Peas: If you have fresh peas available, you can use them instead of frozen peas. Shell the peas and cook them in the skillet for a few minutes until tender.
Don't Overcook the Pasta: Overcooked pasta will be mushy and unappetizing. Cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture.
Salt the Pasta Water: Salting the pasta water is essential for seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.
Reserve Pasta Water: Don't forget to reserve some of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water is liquid gold and helps to create a creamy sauce.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water. If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce it.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish. Use fresh parsley, basil, or oregano.
Make it 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 toss it with the sauce.
Freezing: While technically you can freeze this, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze it, consider adding a little extra cream when reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Why This Recipe Works:

This ham and pea pasta recipe is a classic comfort food dish that's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy sauce, salty ham, and sweet peas is simply irresistible. The recipe is also versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. You can add different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to create your own unique version. The use of reserved pasta water is a key element that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a perfectly emulsified and flavorful sauce that coats every strand of pasta.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

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

Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
Fat: 25-35 grams
Protein: 20-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams

Enjoy your delicious and comforting ham and pea pasta!

Conclusion:

This ham pea pasta recipe isn't just another weeknight meal; it's a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple dish that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. The salty ham perfectly complements the sweetness of the peas, all brought together by a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. It's a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your family asking for seconds, guaranteed! But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta – penne, farfalle, or even rotini would work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add some sautéed mushrooms or asparagus for an earthy depth of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat that balances the richness of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

* Elevate the dish: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation. * Make it a complete meal: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. * Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick. * Add some greens: Stir in some wilted spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients. * Make it lighter: Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk or cream cheese for a healthier version. * Leftovers: This pasta is delicious cold the next day, making it perfect for lunchboxes or picnics. I truly believe that this ham pea pasta recipe is a winner. It's quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It's the kind of dish that you can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to guests at a casual dinner party. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. And more importantly, I'm eager to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? Did you add any special ingredients? What did your family think? Please, don't hesitate to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I love seeing how you make this recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you'll love. Happy cooking, and I can't wait to hear from you! Remember to tag me in your social media posts so I can see your culinary creations! Let's spread the love for this amazing ham pea pasta!