Homestyle Creamy Penne with Pancetta and Peas
Are you looking for a dish that encapsulates the authentic flavors of homestyle cooking with a touch of originality? Today, I’ll guide you through the preparation of a simple yet surprising first course that brings tradition straight to your table.
Remember when, as a kid, you’d follow the intoxicating aroma wafting from the kitchen? That irresistible allure is just what you’ll experience as you sauté shallots and pancetta, essential for creating an intense aromatic base. This meal evokes those magical moments, but with a twist: the addition of peas and tomato creates a symphony of colors and flavors.
Creamy perfection: the penne, perfectly coated in the creamy sauce enriched with butter and fresh parsley. And if you crave that crispy memory under your teeth, don’t forget the twist: toasted pine nuts will make your taste buds dance! With approximately 550 Kcal per portion, this dish strikes a perfect balance between full-bodied flavor and lightness. Get ready to immerse yourself in this culinary experience!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: This recipe is super easy and quick to make.
- FLAVOR: It’s all about the rich and satisfying combination of peas, pearl onions, and bacon.
- CRUNCHY TWIST: We’re adding some toasted pine nuts for a little extra texture.
- PREPARATION: Reasonable prep and cooking times for a speedy meal.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Each serving has about 550 calories.
Ingredient notes for the recipe
- Frozen peas: packed with fiber and protein, add a pop of color to the dish
- Pearl onions: lend sweetness and flavor to the sauce
- Canned tomatoes: rich in lycopene, enrich the sauce with an intense flavor
- Butter: adds creaminess to the sauce and enhances the flavors
- Pancetta: brings a salty and savory touch to the dish
- Parsley: fresh and aromatic, adds a touch of freshness to the preparation
- Salt and pepper: to adjust the taste of the dish to your liking
Nutritional Aspects
Let’s discover the benefits of this tasty recipe for Creamy Pea and Pearl Onion Pasta:
- Peas, a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Penne pasta, providing long-lasting energy from carbohydrates.
- Pearl onions, natural antioxidants for overall well-being.
- Canned tomatoes, packed with vitamin C and lycopene for healthy skin.
- Butter adds richness, but it’s used moderately here.
- Pancetta adds flavor and a touch of saturated fats.
- Parsley enriches the dish with essential vitamins and minerals.
- A well-balanced dish: carbohydrates, protein, and good fats!
Recipe for Penne with Peas and Pearl Onions
Instructions
- In a large pan, melt half of the butter over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced pearl onions and diced pancetta, letting them sauté until they become lightly golden.
- Incorporate the coarsely chopped peeled tomatoes and previously thawed peas.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing the ingredients well.
- Let the sauce cook for about 20-30 minutes, until the flavors have melded and the peas are tender.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water, and transfer it to the pan with the prepared sauce.
- Add the remaining butter and some of the pasta cooking water to cream everything over low heat.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Variations of Penne with Peas and Pearl Onions Recipe: A Classic with a Twist
Add a personal touch to your recipe with these variations:
- Pasta Variations: Try the recipe with whole wheat pasta for a healthy and nourishing twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the pancetta for a light and tasty vegetarian version.
- Grated Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese to your liking to further enrich the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Penne with Peas and Pearl Onions.
How can I make the pasta creamier?
Add a bit of the pasta cooking water to the saucepan with the sauce to blend everything together over low heat.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
For a crispy touch and extra flavor, you can add some toasted pine nuts to the sauce before tossing the pasta.
Can I substitute frozen peas with fresh peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas instead of frozen ones, just adjust the cooking time based on their texture.
