Creamy Orecchiette with Peas and Prosciutto
This delicious creamy orecchiette pasta dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the sweetness of peas and the savory depth of prosciutto. Inspired by a recipe from Epicurious Television by Michael Lomonaco, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. The orecchiette, known for its unique ear-like shape, holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite a taste sensation. Customize by substituting ham with prosciutto for an added touch of flavor and sophistication.
6
Servings
250
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
orecchiette
1 lb (dried)
butter
3 tablespoons (divided)
white onion
1 small (diced (about 1/2 cup))
frozen peas
1/2 cup (can use fresh)
water
2 tablespoons (for cooking peas)
cooked ham or prosciutto
4 ounces (cut into thin strips)
heavy cream
3/4 cup (for sauce)
grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (fresh)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat until it starts to bubble.
3
Add the diced white onion to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent.
4
Stir in the frozen peas and water, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until heated through.
5
Add the thinly sliced ham or prosciutto to the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
6
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a low simmer. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7
In a large serving bowl, combine the drained pasta with the sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta.
8
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat until fully melted and combined into the sauce.
9
Mix in the grated parmesan cheese until it has melted into the sauce.
10
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy orecchiette!
Nutrition Information
14g
Fat
25g
Carbs
7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Orecchiette with Peas and Prosciutto?
It is a rich pasta dish combining heavy cream, sweet peas, and savory prosciutto or ham, featuring ear-shaped orecchiette pasta.
What does orecchiette mean?
Orecchiette is a type of pasta known for its unique ear-like shape, which is excellent for holding onto creamy sauces.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions that you can use fresh peas instead of the 1/2 cup of frozen peas.
What is a good substitute for prosciutto?
You can use four ounces of cooked ham cut into thin strips as an alternative to prosciutto.
How long should I cook the orecchiette pasta?
The pasta should be cooked according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.
Is this recipe considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it is tagged as Italian cuisine and Italian comfort food, though categorized generally as European.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to provide 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you can simply omit the ham or prosciutto from the recipe.
What type of cream is used for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of heavy cream to create the sauce's rich consistency.
What kind of onion is required?
One small white onion, diced to yield about 1/2 cup, is required for the base of the sauce.
Which cheese should be used?
The recipe specifies 1/4 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best enjoyed within a few days.
Can I freeze this creamy pasta?
While possible, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated; it is best served fresh.
Why is orecchiette used in this recipe?
Its ear-like shape holds the creamy sauce and small peas beautifully, ensuring a perfect balance in every bite.
How much butter is needed in total?
A total of 3 tablespoons of butter is used, divided into 1 tablespoon for sautéing and 2 tablespoons for finishing.
When is the parmesan cheese added?
The parmesan cheese is mixed in at the end, after the pasta has been coated in the sauce and the final butter has melted.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or asparagus would complement the cream and peas well.
How should the prosciutto be prepared?
The prosciutto or ham should be cut into thin strips before being added to the pan.
Should I salt the pasta water?
Yes, following standard package directions usually includes cooking the pasta in well-salted boiling water.
How long should the sauce simmer?
After adding the heavy cream, allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Milk can be used but will result in a much thinner and less rich sauce; heavy cream is recommended for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with straightforward instructions for any home cook.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 7 grams of protein per serving in this dish.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 14 grams of fat.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the orecchiette with a gluten-free pasta of a similar shape.
What is the purpose of the water in the pea step?
Two tablespoons of water are added with the peas to help them heat through and steam slightly during sautéing.
Do I need to thaw frozen peas first?
No, you can add the frozen peas directly to the pan with the onions and water.
How do I finish the sauce?
The sauce is finished by stirring in 2 tablespoons of butter and the parmesan cheese over low heat until melted.
Is this dish appropriate for a dinner party?
Absolutely, the description notes it is perfect for an elegant gathering or a cozy family dinner.