Snap Peas With Ham And Pasta
A quick, flavorful dish combining tender pasta, sweet snap peas, smoky ham, and aromatic thyme, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Add smashed garlic and snap peas; sauté, stirring over high heat until peas are slightly browned, about 2 minutes.
- Add cubed ham and heat through.
- Remove from heat and discard garlic.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet.
- Stir in thyme and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot or at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving. If fresh thyme isn't available, dried thyme can be used as a substitute, but reduce the amount to 1/8 tsp. Feel free to swap out the smoked ham for leftover diced ham from dishes like Ham Hocks And Red Beans for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is excellent served hot or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal prep or picnics. Pair with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with sides like Farm Fried Potatoes for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snap Peas With Ham And Pasta contains roughly 358 calories, with 15g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (222% of the Daily Value), iron (122% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% 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 frozen snap peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen snap peas can be used as a convenient alternative. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing, and sauté until heated through. This will save you time while still delivering a tasty dish.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work well in this dish. For a healthier option, try whole grain or legume-based pasta, which adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, complementing the ham nicely.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also incorporate plant-based protein, such as tofu or tempeh, for added texture and nutrients.
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).