Preparation of pasta with cream, ham and peas

• Since the sauce is prepared in the same time as the pasta cooks, put a pot of salted water on the heat. Meanwhile, while you wait for the water to boil, prepare our little sauce.

• Pour the oil into a pan and add the chopped onion. Stir and after a few minutes, when the onion is soft, add the peas and the cooked ham. Stir again, taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

• Check that the water is boiling and add the pasta. Meanwhile, let the sauce cook over medium-low heat. When there are only a few minutes left of cooking time, add the cream to the ham and peas. Stir, taste and, if needed, add a pinch of salt.

• Now drain the pasta and pour it into the pan with the sauce. Turn up the heat and stir for a few minutes. Finally, add a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan. The dish is ready!

  

• Substitutions, variations and additions
  🧓 Ham substitutions
  Speck: for a stronger, slightly smoky taste.
  Sweet or smoked pancetta: makes the dish more savory and rustic.

  🥫 Cream alternatives
  Light cooking cream: lighter but still creamy.
  Ricotta: loosened with a little cooking water for a more delicate cream.
  Cream cheese (Philadelphia) or spreadable cheese: gives a velvety creaminess.
  Plant-based cream: ideal for those who prefer a lighter or lactose-free version.

  🌱 Vegetable variations
  Sliced zucchini: pairs very well with cream and ham.
  Button mushrooms: for a more autumnal and aromatic touch.

  🍽️ Pasta variations
  Penne, farfalle, fusilli: hold the cream well.
  Tagliatelle or fettuccine: for a richer, more enveloping version.
  Fresh pasta: perfect if you want to turn a simple dish into something special.

• How to make it gluten-free
  Use gluten-free pasta Choose penne, fusilli or farfalle that are gluten-free and made from corn, rice or cereal mixes. Tip: cook it one minute less to avoid it falling apart.
  Check the ham Cooked ham is almost always gluten-free, but it’s better to check the label.
  Gluten-free cream Most cooking creams are naturally gluten-free, but a quick check is recommended.

  How to make it lactose-free
  Replace the cream You can use:
  – lactose-free cream
  – plant-based cream (soy, rice, oat)
  – lactose-free ricotta loosened with a little cooking water
  Check the ham Again: usually it is lactose-free, but better to verify.
  Avoid traditional cheeses If you want to add Parmesan or Grana, choose the lactose-free version (now widely available).