Fettuccine With Ham And Peas
Creamy fettuccine with ham and peas offers a comforting, savory dish with rich Parmesan and sour cream flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté garlic in 1 tablespoon of melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in shredded ham and thawed peas, and cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat; cover and keep warm.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
- Combine cooked fettuccine with the ham and pea mixture, then toss with the creamy sauce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using prosciutto instead of ham. You can also swap the fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs. Make sure to sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish, giving it a slight kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fettuccine dish with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread pairs well to soak up any leftover creamy sauce. For an Italian twist, consider serving alongside a lightened spaghetti a la carbonara as a delightful side dish to complement the richness of the fettuccine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through, or gently warm on the stove over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettuccine With Ham And Peas contains roughly 1053 calories, with 22g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used in place of frozen for a brighter flavor. Just blanch them briefly before adding to the dish to ensure they remain tender yet crisp. This can elevate the dish's freshness, making it even more enjoyable.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture. You can also include additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value while maintaining the creaminess of the sauce.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that will provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you're seeking a non-dairy option, ensuring that the dish remains creamy and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).