How to Make the Perfect Pancetta Pea Rigatoni
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This pancetta pea rigatoni is a simple yet deeply satisfying Italian pasta ready in just 15 minutes. The quick recipe balances salty crispy pancetta with sweet peas and a light sauce for a perfect weeknight meal.
Why this recipe works
This Pancetta Pea Rigatoni recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 530 calories with 24g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 320 g rigatoni pasta
- 150 g diced pancetta
- 150 g frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 60 ml heavy cream
- 40 g Parmesan cheese grated
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Boil rigatoni in heavily salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Crisp the Pancetta
While pasta cooks fry pancetta in a large pan over medium-high heat until golden and crispy, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add Peas and Cream
Add frozen peas directly to the pan with a splash of pasta water and stir until peas are heated through, then pour in the cream and stir.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
Add drained rigatoni to the pan, toss to coat, finish with Parmesan and black pepper, and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- pancetta → bacon or guanciale for a similar salty cured meat flavor
- heavy cream → reserved pasta water and extra Parmesan for a lighter sauce
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcooking peas until they lose their bright green color and sweet flavor
- Not reserving pasta water before draining which is essential for adjusting sauce consistency
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 530 calories, 24g protein, 60g carbs, 20g fat, 5g fiber.
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