Pasta with Peas and Ham
When life gets hectic, a dish that’s quick, comforting, and delicious can be a lifesaver. This Pasta with Peas and Ham is a simple yet satisfying recipe that combines wholesome ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal.
Tender ditalini pasta pairs beautifully with sweet peas, savory ham, and a luscious cream sauce. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, every bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an instant family favorite.
Ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time, this one-pot wonder is as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pasta with Peas and Ham: Ingredients
- Ditalini Pasta: The foundation of this comforting dish, its small, tender shape perfectly captures every creamy, flavorful bite.
- Sweet Peas: These vibrant gems add a pop of color and a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Ham Steak: Rich and smoky, the ham delivers hearty, meaty satisfaction in every forkful.
- Heavy Cream: The luxurious base that ties all the ingredients together with its velvety texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: A nutty, salty finish that elevates the flavors to perfection.
Pasta with Peas and Ham: Enhanced Recipe Guide
Recipe Tips
- Choosing the Right Pasta
While ditalini pasta works perfectly in this recipe, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni. The key is selecting a pasta that will hold the creamy sauce and peas well. Make sure not to overcook the pasta for the perfect bite. - Enhancing the Flavor with Herbs
Add extra flavor by incorporating fresh herbs. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or basil just before serving adds freshness and a pop of color, complementing the richness of the cream and Parmesan. For a more savory touch, a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary works beautifully with the ham. - Cream Substitutes for a Lighter Option
If you’re looking to reduce the richness of the dish, consider substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for a lighter, but still creamy texture. You can also try using a non-dairy cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
What to Serve with Pasta with Peas and Ham
- Simple Green Salad
A crisp green salad is the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of this pasta dish. Opt for a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The fresh and zesty flavors balance the heaviness of the pasta while adding a refreshing crunch. - Garlic Bread
Serve this hearty pasta with a side of warm garlic bread for an irresistible combination. The buttery, garlicky toast is ideal for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade garlic bread, whichever suits your time constraints. - Steamed Vegetables
Pair the pasta with lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added color and texture. These vegetables provide a nutritious contrast and bring a delightful crispness that complements the softness of the peas and creamy sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used instead of frozen ones. If using fresh peas, you may need to cook them for a few extra minutes until they are tender. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this pasta dish is best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time by cooking the pasta and ham separately, then combining them with the cream just before serving. It may be a little creamier when reheated, so you might want to add a splash of milk or cream to adjust the texture. - Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken, bacon, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly depending on the meat you choose. - How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes into the pasta as it cooks or mixing in a bit of spicy mustard with the cream. A dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor for those who enjoy a little kick.
Pasta with Peas and Ham
This dish combines simplicity with heartiness, offering a quick and satisfying meal for busy days. Featuring creamy pasta, tender peas, and savory ham, it’s a perfect comfort food that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. ditalini pasta
- 8 oz. ham steak
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp salted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook until just tender. After the pasta is cooked, add the frozen peas and continue cooking for an additional minute. Drain the pasta and peas in a colander.
- While the pasta cooks, dice the ham steak into small cubes. Once the pasta and peas are drained, return them to the pot, adding the diced ham and butter. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the ham is browned and slightly crisped.
- Once the ham is ready, add the drained pasta and peas back to the pot, along with the heavy cream. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cream is heated through, allowing the browned bits from the pot to incorporate into the sauce.
- Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta. Stir to combine until the cheese melts into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then serve.
