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Creamy Pea and Prosciutto Mint Pasta

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A quick and easy pasta dish featuring a creamy sauce with peas, salty prosciutto, and fresh mint for a bright, fresh flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting yet light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (linguine or fettuccine; gluten-free pasta optional)
  • 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, thawed
  • 4 oz (115 g) prosciutto, sliced into strips
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced prosciutto and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to crisp slightly but isn’t too crunchy. Remove some of the fat if excessive, but keep enough for flavor.
  3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 cup (150 g) peas and sauté for 2 minutes until warmed through.
  4. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup (15 g) chopped fresh mint leaves and 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well so the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if using.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce seems too thick, until the sauce coats the pasta silky and clingy.
  7. Plate the pasta, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and garnish with a few whole mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add mint at the end to preserve brightness. Use frozen peas for convenience and color. Reheat leftovers gently with cream or milk to restore sauce texture. Variations include vegetarian, dairy-free, and protein additions.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, pea pasta, prosciutto pasta, mint pasta, easy dinner, quick pasta recipe, spring pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-pea-and-prosciutto-mint-pasta-easy-recipe-for-fresh-flavor/