Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta Delicious and Easy Recipe

Looking for a quick, tasty meal? My Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta is here to save the day! This easy recipe blends delicious flavors and simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a creamy, comforting dish that pleases everyone. Ready to impress your family? Let’s dive into this fun and tasty cooking adventure!

Ingredients

To make creamy ham and pea pasta, gather these simple ingredients:

– 300g pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)

– 200g cooked ham, diced

– 1 cup frozen peas

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Fresh basil leaves for garnishing

Detailed list of ingredients

Pasta type options:

You can use penne or fettuccine for this dish. Penne is a short, tube-shaped pasta. Fettuccine is long, flat, and ribbon-like. Both types hold the creamy sauce well.

Alternatives for cooked ham:

If you don’t have cooked ham, use diced chicken or turkey. You can also try smoked sausage for a different flavor.

Substitutes for heavy cream and Parmesan cheese:

For lighter options, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream. If you lack Parmesan, try pecorino or a dairy-free cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start with salted water. It helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. Bring it to a rolling boil before adding your pasta.

To check for “al dente,” taste a piece of pasta a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. When ready, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Pour the pasta into a colander and let it sit. This water can help adjust your sauce later.

Sautéing Ingredients

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute. You want it fragrant, not brown.

Next, add the diced ham. Cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it gets a bit crispy. This adds great flavor and texture to your dish.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir often to prevent burning.

Once the cream is warm, add grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts completely. If the sauce seems too thick, use some reserved pasta water to thin it out.

The sauce should be creamy and smooth, coating the pasta perfectly when combined.

Tips & Tricks

Best practices for a creamy sauce

To keep your heavy cream from curdling, heat it slowly. Start with low heat. Always stir gently when cooking. If you see tiny bubbles, lower the heat. This helps the cream stay smooth and creamy.

Seasoning is key. Use salt and pepper early in the cooking. Taste as you go. This helps you adjust the flavor to your liking. A pinch of salt can make a big difference. It brings out the other flavors in the dish.

Ways to enhance flavor

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. These give a nice, fresh taste. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper for heat. This adds a fun kick to your pasta.

When serving, consider toppings like extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also add crispy bacon bits for crunch. Fresh basil leaves add color and taste. A little extra touch can make your dish shine!

Variations

Vegetable add-ins

You can make this dish even better with veggies. Fresh or frozen peas work great. You can also add:

– Broccoli florets

– Spinach

– Zucchini slices

– Bell pepper strips

Try to pick seasonal veggies for best taste. For a colorful mix, use a combo of green and yellow veggies. Just remember to cook them until tender before adding to the sauce.

Protein alternatives

If you want to change the protein, chicken or turkey are great swaps. You can use:

– Diced cooked chicken

– Shredded cooked turkey

For a vegetarian version, leave out the meat. Instead, add more veggies or some chickpeas for protein. You can even use a mix of mushrooms for a meaty texture. This way, everyone can enjoy a creamy ham and pea pasta!

Storage Info

Proper storage methods

To keep your creamy ham and pea pasta fresh, store it in a sealed container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The pasta will stay good for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure to divide it into portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating guidelines

When you want to reheat, there are two main ways. The stovetop is best for keeping texture. Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help. Stir often until it’s warm.

Using the microwave is quick but can change the texture. Place the pasta in a bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This prevents hot spots and keeps it creamy. Always check that it’s heated through before serving.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer good options. Check the label to ensure it fits your needs. Cook it just like regular pasta. The rest of the recipe stays the same. This way, you keep all the creamy goodness without gluten.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses! Try mozzarella, cheddar, or even a mix. Each cheese brings a unique flavor to the dish. Grate your chosen cheese to help it melt well. Just remember, the creaminess might change a bit, but it will still taste great!

What can I serve with Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta?

You can serve this pasta with various side dishes and salads. Here are some tasty ideas:

– Garlic bread: It pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

– Green salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens can balance out the meal.

– Roasted vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrients.

– Steamed broccoli: This is a great way to add more veggies.

These sides will make your meal more enjoyable and colorful!

This blog post covered making a delicious Creamy Ham & Pea Pasta. We explored ingredients like pasta types, ham choices, and cream substitutes. I shared step-by-step cooking tips and how to create the perfect creamy sauce. We also discussed tips to enhance flavor and suggested tasty variations. For storage, I provided methods to keep it fresh.

With these straightforward tips, you can make a meal that’s simple and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking journe