If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, look no further than this Ham Pea Leek Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's not only satisfying but also bursting with vibrant colors and rich flavors. Picture tender pasta enveloped in a savory blend of crispy ham, sweet peas, and aromatic leeks, all topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 150g ham, diced
- 100g peas
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Clean the leeks thoroughly, removing any dirt between the layers. Slice the leeks into thin half-rings, discarding the tough dark green tops.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the ham to slightly crisp and release its flavors.
- Stir in the peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and heated through.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the leeks, ham, and peas. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The ham will likely provide some saltiness, so taste before adding additional salt.
- Serve hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta until al dente for the best texture. Remember to reserve some pasta cooking water; it’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency later!
- Leek Love: When preparing leeks, be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any hidden grit. The tender white part is what you want to use, while the tough green tops can be discarded.
- Ham Choices: Feel free to use different types of ham, such as prosciutto or pancetta, for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Finish: For an extra indulgent touch, mix in some cream or a splash of white wine while tossing the pasta for a richer sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine, making it a fantastic choice for a cozy dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
