At this time of year, when there’s not a whole lot of excitement around in terms of fresh fruit and veg, I tend to rely on whatever I’ve got stashed in my freezer or store-cupboard. This simple pasta dish that takes about 15 minutes to make and it’s an ideal mid-week supper when you’ve had a busy day at work and want something quick and satisfying to eat.
You will need:
400g of dried Penne pasta
3 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
½ an onion
150g panchetta, cut into thin slices
2 tbsp of of crème fraiche
150g frozen peas
Parmesan for sprinkling
Serves 4
1.) Bring a pot of salted water to the boil and then cook the penne pasta according to the instructions on the packet.
2.) In a large pan, heat the oil in a frying pan and cook the onion until it begins to soften. Add pancetta and cook for about 4 minutes, or until it begins to brown, then add the garlic and peas. Cook for about another minute, or until the peas are cooked, and then turn off the heat.
3.) Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the onion, garlic and pancetta. Add 2 tbsp of crème fraiche and mix gently until well combined. If you prefer you sauce more creamy then just add more creme fraiche.
4.) Serve on warmed plates and sprinkle generously with parmesan.