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Peas with Pancetta

Peas with pancetta is a quick Italian side dish where frozen sweet peas are simmered in chicken broth until bright green, then finished with butter and lemon zest for a glossy coating. Crispy pancetta and softened shallots add savory crunch, with fresh mint on top for a clean finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Peas with pancetta
  • 4 oz pancetta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 shallot large, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb frozen sweet peas
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint or parsley chopped

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Cook the pancetta
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook pancetta for 6-8 minutes until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove half of the pancetta for topping and set aside.
Soften shallot and garlic
  1. In the same skillet, add the minced shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
Warm the peas
  1. Add frozen sweet peas and chicken broth, then cook for 4-5 minutes until the peas are bright green and hot. Keep the mixture at a steady simmer.
Finish and serve
  1. Stir in butter and lemon zest, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for 30-60 seconds just to melt the butter and coat the peas.
  2. Top with the reserved pancetta and chopped fresh mint or parsley, then serve immediately.

Notes

For best texture, don’t overcrowd the skillet when crisping the pancetta—work in one layer and keep the heat at medium for steady browning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop until hot. Freezing isn’t recommended because the peas can soften further. For a dairy-light option, use olive oil in place of butter (or use 1 tsp butter and add an extra drizzle of olive oil) and keep the lemon zest for brightness.