Pasta with Peas and Ham Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that hits all the right notes—comforting, quick, and bursting with fresh flavors—you absolutely must try this Pasta with Peas and Ham. It’s a brilliant combination where tender pasta dances with sweet peas and savory ham, all brought together by a luscious creamy sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This recipe is one of those gems that feels like a warm hug on a plate but comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try this delightful dish, it will become a regular in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Pasta with Peas and Ham recipe sing. Each item works to build layers of flavor, texture, and balance—whether it’s the sweetness of frozen peas, the savory notes of ham, or the creamy touch that ties everything together.
- 400 g pasta (penne or fusilli recommended): These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- 200 g frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a gentle sweetness that brightens the dish.
- 150 g cooked ham, diced: Brings savory richness and a satisfying meaty texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a fragrant base and smooth sautéing.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a little bite.
- 100 ml cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty topping that enhances all the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that balance the dish and bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and a burst of green.
- Lemon zest (optional): A bright finishing touch that lifts the creaminess beautifully.
How to Make Pasta with Peas and Ham
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Peas
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This step is crucial because the pasta needs a well-seasoned bath to develop flavor from the start. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente—meaning firm to the bite but not hard. When there are just 3 minutes left on the timer, toss in the frozen peas directly into the pot. Cooking them with the pasta saves time and infuses the peas with flavor from the salted water, giving them a tender yet vibrant finish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While your pasta and peas are boiling, grab a large pan and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the warm oil. The goal here is to slowly soften these aromatics so they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This foundation infuses every bite with deep, mellow sweetness and that irresistible garlic undertone that feels so comforting.
Step 3: Add the Ham
Once your onions and garlic are perfectly softened, it’s time to introduce the diced ham. Toss it into the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This brief cooking not only heats the ham through but also lets its smoky, salty character mingle with the aromatics, creating a savory base that’ll really make your pasta sing.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Next, pour in the cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This warms the cream without boiling it, allowing it to thicken slightly and coat the ham, onion, and garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper—you want the flavors to pop and balance perfectly before adding the pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Peas, and Sauce
Drain the pasta and peas, then add them directly into your pan with the cream and ham. Toss everything together over low heat carefully, ensuring each piece is coated in that creamy sauce. This gentle cooking step allows the flavors to meld, with the peas keeping their brightness and the ham distributing evenly throughout the dish.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Take your pan off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss again just enough to melt the cheese through the warm pasta without it clumping. The Parmesan adds a nutty, salty richness that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve your Pasta with Peas and Ham hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, a bit of lemon zest adds an unexpected zing that cuts through the creaminess delightfully.
How to Serve Pasta with Peas and Ham
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic way to finish this dish—it adds a crisp herbal brightness that balances the rich cream sauce. A tiny sprinkle of lemon zest gives a fresh, vibrant aroma that really elevates every mouthful. Don’t be shy to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or chives, too, for extra layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This Pasta with Peas and Ham stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any sauce left on your plate, making the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a visual wow, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley. You can also plate it alongside roasted vegetables or a colorful tomato salad to make the whole meal feel festive and balanced. For a crowd, baking the pasta briefly with extra cheese until bubbly adds a comforting twist everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Pasta with Peas and Ham, simply cool any leftovers to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. Because the dish contains cream, it’s best consumed within this timeframe to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezing
This pasta dish doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream sauce, which can separate and become grainy after thawing. If you want to save leftovers, it’s better to refrigerate and consume quickly for the best taste and texture experience.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if it seems a bit dry. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from curdling. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas are wonderful in this recipe, adding a sweeter, slightly more delicate flavor. Just blanch them briefly before adding, as they cook faster than frozen peas.
Is there a vegetarian version of Pasta with Peas and Ham?
You can easily swap the ham with diced mushrooms, smoked tofu, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian twist. While it won’t be quite the same, these alternatives provide their own delicious umami notes.
What kind of pasta works best?
Penne, fusilli, or any short, ridged pasta is ideal because the sauce clings to every twist and curve. However, feel free to use your favorite shape—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for the cheesy finish.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, allow it to simmer a little longer before adding the pasta, or stir in a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese while cooking, which helps with natural thickening.
Final Thoughts
Pasta with Peas and Ham is one of those recipes that feels truly special but requires minimal effort—perfect for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen. With its vibrant pops of green pea sweetness, the comforting cream sauce, and the salty goodness of ham, every bite is a celebration of simple, satisfying ingredients. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do and find it a staple for your family and friends, bringing warmth and joy to your table time and time again.
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Pasta with Peas and Ham Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Pasta with Peas and Ham recipe that combines tender pasta, sweet peas, and savory ham in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 400 g pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 200 g frozen peas
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 150 g cooked ham, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml cream
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and peas: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling pasta water to cook them together.
- Sauté onion and garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the ham: Add the diced ham to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is heated through.
- Add cream and season: Stir in the cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Drain the pasta and peas, then add them to the pan with the ham and cream mixture. Toss everything together over low heat, ensuring that the pasta and peas are well coated with the sauce.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again to combine.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use fresh peas if available but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a vegetarian version, omit ham and add mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: pasta with peas and ham, creamy pasta recipe, easy weeknight pasta, Italian pasta dish, ham and pea pasta
