Looking for a quick and delicious meal that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this delightful Lemon Pasta with Ham and Peas! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory goodness of ham and the sweet pop of peas. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to savor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 1 cup of diced ham, 1 cup of frozen peas, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 lemon (zested and juiced), salt and pepper to taste, and grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced ham to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to brown slightly.
- Once the ham is browned, add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through.
- When the pasta is done cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the ham and peas. Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Toss everything together to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the pasta mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the pasta immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Enjoy your Lemon Pasta with Ham and Peas as a delicious and quick meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as fusilli or penne, to enhance the overall flavor experience.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh lemon juice and zest for a more vibrant flavor. It truly makes a difference!
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding salt to the boiling water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Be generous but taste as you go!
- Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon. It helps bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a silky texture.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- Leftover Love: This pasta dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat gently to enjoy it again!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 452kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 21g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 31mg
