Pasta And Peas With Ham
A comforting pasta dish featuring tender ditalini, sweet peas, savory ham, and a tomato-infused sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese — perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and ham in olive oil until onions are soft.
- Add sweet peas with liquid and tomato sauce to the skillet and mix well.
- Let the mixture cook over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Cook ditalini pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Mix half of the cooked ditalini with the pea and ham mixture.
- Serve the pasta topped with Parmesan cheese to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using diced pancetta or prosciutto instead of ham. You can also substitute frozen peas if fresh ones aren’t available; just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian recipes featuring tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes a perfect side. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea. This pasta dish is also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Peas With Ham contains roughly 356 calories, with 14g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape such as elbow macaroni or orzo. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you select.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the pasta. You might also want to add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs such as basil or thyme during cooking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, too. Additionally, you can finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a splash of balsamic vinegar for brightness.
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).