Creamy Garganelli with Ham and Peas

Garganelli with Cream, Ham, and Peas: A Delicious Italian First Course

Category: First Courses
Servings: 4

This creamy and savory pasta dish, Garganelli con panna, prosciutto e piselli, brings together the comforting flavors of rich cream, tender ham, and fresh peas. The delicate egg-based garganelli pasta is perfectly complemented by a luscious sauce made from fresh cream and the subtle sweetness of peas, all brought together with the savory richness of prosciutto. It’s an ideal dish to serve for a family meal or special occasion.

Ingredients

Instructions

To prepare Garganelli with Cream, Ham, and Peas, start by finely chopping a shallot. This will add a subtle aromatic base to your dish.

1. Sauté the Shallots
   Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped shallot and cook it slowly, stirring occasionally, to allow it to soften and turn golden brown. This slow cooking process will infuse the oil with flavor and create a beautiful base for the sauce.

2. Cook the Peas
   Once the shallot is golden, add the peas to the pan. Cook the peas for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Add a tablespoon or a ladle of pasta cooking water if needed, to help the peas soften and infuse the flavors together.

3. Boil the Pasta
   Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then carefully drop in the garganelli pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes, depending on the brand and thickness.

4. Prepare the Prosciutto
   While the pasta is cooking, cut the cooked ham (prosciutto cotto) into small cubes. Add these cubes to the pan with the peas and shallots. Stir well to ensure the prosciutto is evenly distributed and starts to warm through, releasing its savory flavor into the sauce.

5. Make the Sauce
   Pour the fresh cream into the pan with the peas and prosciutto. Stir to combine, letting the cream melt and form a smooth sauce. Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor. Season the sauce with black pepper and more salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preferences.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
   When the pasta is done cooking, drain it, reserving a small amount of the cooking water. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, allowing it to coat the noodles thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta cooking water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

7. Serve
   Once the pasta is well-coated and hot, transfer the garganelli to serving plates. Generously sprinkle grated Grana Padano DOP cheese over the top for a rich, umami finish. Serve the dish immediately while it’s still warm, and enjoy the wonderful combination of creamy, savory flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Garganelli with Cream, Ham, and Peas

• Freshness of Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh peas rather than frozen ones. If fresh peas are unavailable, frozen peas will work, but make sure they are well thawed before cooking.
• Pasta Substitutes: While garganelli pasta is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni if preferred.
• Cheese Options: Grana Padano DOP is ideal for this dish, but Parmesan can be used as a substitute if necessary. The cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the cream sauce.
• Enhancing the Flavor: If you want to add more depth to the dish, consider a dash of white wine or a sprinkle of garlic in the beginning, when sautéing the shallots.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Conclusion
This Garganelli with Cream, Ham, and Peas recipe brings a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for a comforting yet elegant Italian pasta dish. The creamy sauce, sweet peas, and savory prosciutto come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests with a flavorful homemade meal!