Creamy Dreamy: The Ultimate Pasta with Salami and Peas Recipe

Pasta with salami and peas, or pasta con piselli e salame as it’s known in Italian, is a classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love, combining the salty, savory flavor of salami with the sweetness of peas in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe takes the traditional approach and elevates it with some simple techniques to create a truly unforgettable pasta experience.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. Here’s why it works so well:

• The Perfect Balance: The salty salami is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the peas, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Creamy Without the Cream: We achieve a rich, creamy sauce without relying on heavy cream. The pasta water, combined with cheese and a touch of butter, creates a luxurious texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer a different cheese? Go for it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these ingredients:

• Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti work well. For a truly authentic touch, try using paccheri.
• Salami: 4-6 ounces of salami, thinly sliced. Genoa salami, soppressata, or even pepperoni can be used. For a spicier kick, opt for a spicy salami. Cut into bite-sized pieces or thin strips.
• Peas: 1 cup of frozen peas. Fresh peas can also be used, but frozen peas are just as delicious and much more convenient.
• Onion: 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped. Yellow or white onion will work. Shallots can also be used for a milder flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic is crucial for adding depth of flavor.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons butter. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best! Pecorino Romano is another excellent cheese option.
• Pasta Water: 1 cup reserved pasta water. This is the secret ingredient for a creamy sauce!
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously!
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, fresh parsley for garnish, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious pasta dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. The starch in the pasta water will help create a creamy sauce.

Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on the salt when cooking your pasta. The salted water seasons the pasta from the inside out. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.

Step 2: Sauté the Salami and Onion

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the salami and cook until lightly browned and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. The salami will render some of its fat, adding even more flavor to the dish.

Pro Tip: If your salami is very lean, you may need to add a little more olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Peas

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through. If using fresh peas, cook for a few minutes longer, until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet with the salami, onion, garlic, and peas. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. The starch in the pasta water will naturally thicken the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Add the Pasta and Cheese

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding richness and flavor. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Pro Tip: Removing the skillet from the heat before adding the cheese will prevent the cheese from clumping up. Stir vigorously to ensure that the cheese melts evenly and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a bright, refreshing touch. Enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat: Instead of salami, try pancetta, prosciutto, or even cooked bacon. Italian sausage is another delicious option.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, asparagus, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or mozzarella. A sprinkle of ricotta cheese on top adds a creamy texture.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme. Stir them in at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
• Spice: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Sauce Boost: For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche at the end.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami entirely and increase the amount of vegetables. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Tips for the Best Pasta with Salami and Peas

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your pasta dish turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well.
• Salt the Pasta Water: As mentioned earlier, salting the pasta water is crucial for seasoning the pasta from the inside out.
• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: Don’t be afraid to reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need. It’s better to have too much than not enough. You can always add more to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will melt more easily and have a better flavor.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Serve Immediately: Pasta dishes are best served immediately. The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits, and the pasta may become soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta with salami and peas is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• A side salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Grilled vegetables: Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• A glass of wine: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with this dish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pasta with salami and peas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different types of pasta?

   Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, and spaghetti are all good options.

2. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

   Yes, you can use fresh peas. Cook them for a few minutes longer than frozen peas, until tender-crisp.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

   Yes, omit the salami entirely and increase the amount of vegetables. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

4. How can I make the sauce creamier?

   Stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche at the end of cooking.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

   While you can technically freeze this dish, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The pasta may become a bit softer. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Enjoy Your Delicious Pasta!

This creamy, flavorful pasta with salami and peas is sure to become a new family favorite. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect weeknight meal. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable pasta experience! Buon appetito!