This is a print preview of "Peas & Pancetta" recipe.

Peas & Pancetta Recipe
by La Tavola Marche (farm, inn & cooking school)

Peas & Pancetta

Sweet peas have arrived at the farmers market, spring is here! Peas & pancetta - one of my favorite dishes that I only eat in Spring when the peas are bright & fresh. I can't get enough, I don't know if it's the peas or the pancetta - is it the green veggie or the fatty pork that I love so?! Maybe I should just have another spoonful...

Rating: 4/5
Avg. 4/5 1 vote
Prep time: Italy Italian
Cook time: Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 12 oz or 330 gr of fresh shelled sweet peas, rinsed
  • 4 oz or 100 gr pancetta, bacon or guanciale, cured pig’s cheek (omit if vegetarian)
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1-2 cloves garlic
  • 2-3 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • spoonful red wine vinegar
  • small handful parsley, chopped
  • tiny bit of mint, chopped (optional)
  • salt & pepper
  • extra virgin olive oil

Directions

  1. Bring a medium pot up to boil. In the meantime, in a medium skillet on medium-low heat, slowly render down the pancetta for 4-5 minutes, trying not to brown it and not crispy. If it starts to brown remove the pan from the heat or lower the flame.
  2. Next add garlic & onion, sauté for 5-6 minutes.
  3. (Vegetarian Note: Just omit the the pancetta & sauté the onions & garlic in olive oil.)
  4. When the onions & garlic are about 2 minutes from being ready, add the tomatoes.
  5. At the same time toss the peas in the water and blanch for 2-3 minutes. You want them approximately half-cooked. Strain the peas and throw them directly into the pan with the pancetta adding a spoonful of the pea-water. Allow to cook until peas are cooked but still have a bite.
  6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt & pepper.
  7. Just before you serve, toss in the herbs and drizzle with good extra virgin olive oil.