Simple Pasta with Peas & Pancetta
A quick, comforting pasta that brings together crispy pancetta, sweet tender peas, and al dente pasta in a light cream sauce. Everything comes together in one pan in about 20 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner that still feels special enough for company.
For 4 servings
- boil · ~10 min
Bring the pasta water to a boil.
1.Fill a large pot with 3 liters of water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.2.Add salt once boiling. The water should taste like the sea. - boil · ~11 min
Cook the pasta to al dente.
1.Add the penne to the boiling water and stir immediately to prevent sticking.2.Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes.3.Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta in a colander.TIPReserve pasta water — the starchy liquid is key to a silky, clingy sauce that coats every piece of pasta. - saute · ~6 min
Crisp the pancetta.
1.While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and diced pancetta.2.Cook until the pancetta is golden and crispy and the fat is rendered, about 5-6 minutes.3.Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the rendered fat in the pan.TIPKeep the rendered fat in the skillet — it's packed with flavor that will form the base of your sauce. - saute · ~5 min
Cook the onion and garlic.
1.Add the chopped onion to the same skillet with the pancetta fat.2.Cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.3.Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. - saute · ~4 min
Add the peas and create the sauce.
1.Add the peas to the skillet and stir to coat in the fat. Cook for 2 minutes until bright green and tender.2.Pour in the heavy cream and a splash of reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup).3.Bring to a gentle bubble and let it thicken slightly for 1-2 minutes. - mix · ~2 min
Toss the pasta with the sauce.
1.Add the drained pasta and the crispy pancetta back into the skillet.2.Toss everything together well, adding more pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.3.Sprinkle in the grated parmesan, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Toss again until the cheese melts into a creamy, glossy sauce. - serve
Serve immediately with extra parmesan.
Divide the pasta among four warm bowls. Finish with an extra grating of fresh parmesan and a crack of black pepper on top.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Reserve a full cup of pasta water before draining; the starch helps emulsify the cream sauce.
- 2Cook pancetta slowly over medium heat to render maximum fat for a richer sauce base.
- 3Add frozen peas directly from the freezer; they brighten and heat through in just 2 minutes.
- 4Toss the hot pasta with sauce off the heat to prevent the cream from curdling or separating.
- 5Use freshly grated parmesan from a block; pre-shredded cheese won't melt as smoothly.
- 6Finish with a splash of lemon zest to cut the richness and brighten the dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Omit the pancetta and use 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil instead. Sauté 100g of finely chopped cremini mushrooms with the onion for a meaty, umami substitute.
gluten freeGluten-free
Swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free short pasta (brown rice or lentil-based works best). Cook according to package directions and reserve pasta water as usual.
extra vegetablesExtra-vegetables
Add 150g of trimmed asparagus (cut into 1-inch pieces) or 1 cup of baby spinach after the peas. This boosts nutrition and adds contrasting color and texture.
herb freshHerb-fresh
Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness that balances the rich cream and salty pancetta.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Protein
Pancetta and parmesan provide high-quality animal protein that helps support muscle maintenance and satiety.
Vitamin C from Peas
Green peas are naturally rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Contains Fiber
Penne pasta and peas both contribute dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Calcium from Parmesan
A serving of freshly grated parmesan adds a modest amount of calcium, important for bone health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, regular bacon works well. Since bacon is smoked and slightly sweeter, it will change the flavor profile but still yields a deliciously crispy, salty topping.
