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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta: A Rich and Addictive Weeknight Meal

Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta
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A rich and indulgent creamy pasta dish featuring sweet peas, salty pancetta, and a touch of fresh lemon for brightness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. The optional arugula adds a peppery freshness, making it a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 220 g dried pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 120 g pancetta, cut into small cubes
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 120 g frozen peas (about ¾ cup)
  • ¾ cup cream
  • 50 g parmesan, finely grated
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus zest to serve)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Extra parmesan, to serve
  • Optional: 1 cup packed arugula

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a pot of well-salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Undercook it by 1 minute for an al dente texture. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Cook the pancetta: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta and fry until golden, about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and peas: Toss in the garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Make the sauce: Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling aggressively. Add the parmesan in 2-3 batches, stirring until melted. Stir in the black pepper and lemon juice.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with ¼ cup of reserved pasta water. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Finish and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the arugula (if using). Serve in bowls, topped with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Notes

  • Timing: Start the sauce just before the pasta finishes cooking to ensure everything comes together seamlessly.
  • Pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce, so don’t skip reserving it!
  • Customize: Swap pancetta for bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.gernarb.com/creamy-pasta-with-peas-and-pancetta-a-rich-and-addictive-weeknight-meal/