Piselli Al Prosciutto(Peas With Italian Ham)
A simple, flavorful Italian side dish featuring sweet peas, savory ham, and optional mushrooms, cooked with onions and finished with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put olive oil in a heavy saucepan.
- Add the sliced onion and cook until golden.
- Add the frozen peas and cook at medium heat until peas are firm, but do not overcook.
- Add ham and/or mushrooms and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with minced parsley leaves, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, use high-quality prosciutto and ensure your onions are cooked until truly golden for a deeper sweetness. If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add extra mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen for a more vibrant taste, but cooking time may vary. This dish also pairs well with other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Piselli Al Prosciutto as a side dish alongside grilled meats or over a bed of creamy polenta for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Italian French Fries for a delightful dinner. Garnish with minced parsley for a fresh touch, and consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Piselli Al Prosciutto(Peas With Italian Ham) contains roughly 1131 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of frozen. They will offer a sweeter and more vibrant flavor, but keep in mind that they may require shorter cooking time. Add them to the pan towards the end of cooking to maintain their crunch and bright color.
What can I substitute for prosciutto?
If you're looking for a substitute for prosciutto, you can use pancetta or even turkey bacon for a leaner option. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using smoked tofu or tempeh, which can provide a similar savory flavor to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Piselli Al Prosciutto ahead of time. Cook the dish and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the prosciutto just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the peas.
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).