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Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta spring dinner

Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta

A rich and addictive creamy pea and pancetta pasta. Freshened up with fresh lemon and arugula for an easy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 220 g dried pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 120 g pancetta cut into small cubes
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 120 g frozen peas about 3/4 cup
  • 0.75 cup cream
  • 50 g parmesan finely grated
  • 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice plus zest to serve
  • salt to taste
  • extra parmesan to serve
  • 1 cup arugula optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta in a pot of well salted boiling water according to package instructions. Undercook by a minute so it remains al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water towards the end.
  • Fry the pancetta in a large skillet in olive oil over medium heat until golden, about 5-6 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds, moving it around so it doesn't burn.
  • Add the frozen peas and toss for another 30 seconds.
  • Add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat if needed; it should never bubble aggressively.
  • Add the parmesan in 2-3 batches, stirring and allowing it to melt in between each addition.
  • Add the black pepper and lemon juice, mixing quickly.
  • Stir in the pasta and 1/4 cup pasta water. Let it gently bubble for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
  • Season to taste with salt and pepper, and add more pasta water if needed.
  • Finish with the arugula if using, then serve topped with extra parmesan and lemon zest.

Notes

A rich and addictive creamy pea and pancetta pasta. Freshened up with fresh lemon and arugula for an easy weeknight meal.
Keyword creamy, pancetta, pasta, peas