Simple Pasta with Peas & Pancetta
This classic, comforting pasta dish is a weeknight hero, combining salty pancetta, sweet peas, and savory Parmesan cheese in a light, flavorful sauce. It's a true 20-minute dinner that's both satisfying and family-friendly.
For 4 servings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the crispy pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the pancetta fat and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the frozen peas to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the peas are heated through and tender.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the peas and garlic. Return the crispy pancetta to the pan. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional butter. Toss everything together vigorously, adding more reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed, to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
Season with freshly ground black pepper and taste, adding more salt if necessary (pancetta and Parmesan are salty, so be cautious). Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't rinse your pasta after draining; the starch helps the sauce adhere better.
- 2Always reserve more pasta water than you think you'll need. It's the secret ingredient for a silky, emulsified sauce.
- 3Render the pancetta slowly over medium heat to ensure it gets perfectly crispy and releases all its flavorful fat.
- 4Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting consistency; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Option
Omit the pancetta and instead sauté sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil for an umami boost. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream, mascarpone, or ricotta cheese along with the Parmesan for a richer, creamier sauce.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Finish the dish with a handful of fresh chopped herbs like mint, parsley, or basil for an added layer of freshness and aroma.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
Pancetta and Parmesan cheese contribute a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
Rich in Fiber
Peas are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy to fuel your body throughout the day.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can substitute bacon for pancetta. Keep in mind that bacon often has a smokier flavor and can be saltier, so adjust seasoning accordingly. Cook it until crispy, just like pancetta.
