Spaghetti with peas and cooked prosciutto

Spaghetti with peas and prosciutto cotto: A quick and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the flavorful culinary world! Today, I invite you to discover a simple and tasty recipe - spaghetti with peas and prosciutto cotto. This delicious combination of pasta, vegetables, and prosciutto is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that will surely impress anyone sitting at your table.

Recipe history

The origins of this dish lie in culinary traditions that blend local and seasonal ingredients, transforming them into unforgettable meals. Spaghetti, a type of pasta known for its perfect texture, is often associated with various sauces and ingredients. Peas, a versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable, add a touch of freshness, while prosciutto cotto provides a rich flavor and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

- 350 g spaghetti
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 150 g prosciutto cotto (or pressed ham, for a more accessible option)
- 1 can of peas (about 400 g)
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
- 200 g sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Necessary utensils

- A deep pan
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A knife
- A spatula
- A strainer or slotted spoon

Step by step: How to prepare spaghetti with peas and prosciutto cotto

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing and cleaning the bell pepper. Cut it into small cubes, and you can finely chop the garlic. If you're using prosciutto cotto, cut it into thin strips as well. These preparations will make cooking much easier and quicker.

2. Cooking the vegetables
In a deep pan, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped bell pepper. Let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes slightly soft and releases its aroma.

3. Adding the peas
Drain the peas from the can and add them to the pan, stirring well to combine with the bell pepper. Let them sauté together for 2-3 minutes, so the peas become a little softer while retaining their vibrant green color.

4. Including the prosciutto
Now it's time to add the prosciutto cotto. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let them cook for a few minutes so that the prosciutto releases its flavors and blends into the mixture.

5. Adding the sour cream
When the vegetables and prosciutto are cooked, add the sour cream and mix everything well. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Boiling the pasta
Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and then add the spaghetti to cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

7. Mixing the pasta with the sauce
When the pasta is ready, drain it using a strainer or slotted spoon, being careful not to drown it in water. Add it directly to the pan over the pea and prosciutto sauce, and mix everything well so that the pasta is perfectly coated in the sauce.

8. Serving
You can serve spaghetti with peas and prosciutto cotto immediately, sprinkling a little freshly ground pepper on top or, if you like, grated Parmesan for an extra flavor boost. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine or lemon water.

Variations and useful tips

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can experiment with other ingredients. For example, you can add chopped cherry tomatoes or fresh spinach for extra color and nutrients. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can replace the sour cream with goat cheese or ricotta cheese.

If you don't have prosciutto cotto on hand, pressed ham is an excellent alternative, offering a similar taste. You can even use tofu cubes for a vegetarian option while maintaining the delicious texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Peas are rich in protein and fiber, helping to maintain healthy digestion and a feeling of fullness. Garlic, besides adding flavor, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, being a key ally for heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is an excellent option for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to follow the package instructions.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy flavor, you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper during cooking. These will give an interesting kick to the recipe.

3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
It is recommended to prepare the pasta and sauce fresh to maintain optimal texture. However, you can make the sauce a day in advance and reheat it before adding the cooked pasta.

I hope this recipe for spaghetti with peas and prosciutto cotto brings smiles to your table and provides you with a satisfying culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!