| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 20g | 7g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 3g | 15g | 1.2g |
Imagine running your taste buds through a lush green garden blooming with freshness. Now, fuse this imagery with the rich, distinct flavor of the classic Italian pancetta. That’s what Peas and Pancetta – the recipe I am thrilled to talk about today – reminds me of. It captures the essence of New York City’s culinary panorama – a love letter written in fresh produce, aromatic herbs, delectable meats, and exotic seasonings.
A Delectable Harmony of Flavors
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and character. You’ve got fresh peas as the main protagonist, a delightful veggie known for its sweet and slightly crisp bite. Pair that with the savory pancetta, a cured Italian delight that plays the perfect supporting role. The narrative continues with the subtle yet impactful intervention of onions and garlic, both of which are sautéed to translucent perfection in olive oil, establishing a robust base for the dish. The plot thickens with the addition of dry white wine, lemon zest, and juice – its acidity cutting through the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious symphony of sour, salty, and sweet notes. The finale is in the fresh mint leaves and grated Parmesan cheese – a dash of cool freshness and a sprinkle of nutty creaminess.
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This show-stopping dish reminiscent of Spring in Italy is something that reminds me of home in the Big Apple. Like the city, this recipe embraces diversity. Similar to the confident demeanor New Yorkers carry, each ingredient in this dish shines individually yet works in harmony with each other. It’s precisely the kind of performance I strive for as a stage actor – individual brilliance within a cooperative setting that culminates in a larger-than-life show.
Health in each Bite
Not only is this recipe a feast for the palate, but it also packs several health benefits. Peas, for instance, are low in calories but high in fiber, proteins, and micronutrients. Pancetta, besides its top-notch flavor profile, delivers crucial minerals like zinc and selenium. Additional health benefits come from olive oil, known to help reduce heart disease risk, and garlic, a potent immunity booster. So, with this dish, you’re not only satisfying your discerning palate but also nourishing your body.
Wondering what could be the perfect accompaniment to this vibrant dish? A side of garlic and herb crusty baked potatoes, a refreshing aromatic sea bass parcel, or some crusty bread would be grand. The versatility of Peas and Pancetta lets you effortlessly pair it with your favorite entrée, main, or even as a lively add-on in your mixed salad.
As I dive into this hearty, soul-nourishing dish, I am reminded once again why I am so captivated by the city’s gastronomic scene – it’s accepting, it’s diverse, and most importantly, it’s deliciously inspiring. I hope you find the same joy from this Peas and Pancetta recipe as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound fresh shelled peas
- 6 ounces pancetta, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Method
Step One
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the 6 ounces of diced pancetta. Cook it until it’s crispy and has released its fat. It usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
Step Two
Add the finely chopped small onion and minced garlic cloves to the pan. Cook until onion becomes soft and translucent, this usually takes about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step Three
Now it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour 1/2 cup dry white wine into the pan and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to reduce by half, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
Step Four
Add 1 pound of fresh shelled peas to the pan, stirring well to combine it with the pancetta and onions. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow the peas to cook until they are tender. It usually takes about 10 minutes.
Step Five
Remove the pan from the heat and add the zest and juice of 1 lemon along with the chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so all the flavors meld together.
Step Six
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. You can also garnish with a few more fresh mint leaves for extra flavor if you like. Your Peas and Pancetta are ready to be served, enjoy!
