Peas and Pancetta Recipe (Easy Italian Side Dish)
Mar 10, 2025, Updated Mar 23, 2025
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Peas and Pancetta: Sweet peas, crispy pancetta, and aromatic shallots come together in this irresistible one-pan recipe that’s ready in minutes—simple, savory, and guaranteed to impress! A dish the whole family will love. Buon appetitio!
Serve with roasted chicken or pork chops.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This crowd-pleasing, easy side dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort—you’ll want to make these peas and pancetta recipe repeatedly!
- Bursting with Flavor: The sweet, tender peas and crispy saltiness of the pancetta create a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the comforting and familiar flavors.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, dinner party, or casual weeknight, this dish fits every table and setting.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Reheat beautifully, ideal for meal prep or quick leftovers.
- Elevates Any Menu: Pair it with roasted meats, fish, or pasta for a complete, show-stopping meal.
You’ll also love my Italian peas and onions. One taste, and you’ll understand why it’s a must-have in your side dish rotation! It’s the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu, Christmas dinner, or Easter feast.
Table of Contents
Simple Ingredients
There is no need for a long ingredient list—this delicious side dish recipe uses pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
- Olive Oil– a smooth and fruity base to sauté the ingredients, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Pancetta– diced Italian cured pork belly that crisps up beautifully, adding savory richness and a hint of saltiness.
- Shallots– add a sweet onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Peas– bright, sweet, and tender, they add a pop of color and a natural sweetness to balance the dish.
- Salt– enhances all the dishes’ flavors, bringing the ingredients to life.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper– adds a touch of warmth and a mild spice to complement the sweetness of the peas.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)- provide a subtle kick of heat for those who enjoy a spicy edge to their dish.
See the recipe card for quantities.
How To Make Peas and Pancetta
This simple side dish comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute side dishes. For more instructions, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Add olive oil and pancetta to a large skillet, medium heat. Cook until golden brown.
Leave the rendered fat in the pan and remove the pancetta with a wooden or slotted spoon.
Add the shallot.
Cook the shallot until soft.
Add the fresh or frozen peas. I like to use petite peas.
Add the pancetta back to the pan and season with salt and pepper.
Stir to combine the peas, shallots, and pancetta.
Enjoy your easy peas and pancetta side dish!
FAQ’s
Yes! Fresh peas work beautifully. Blanch them for 2–3 minutes in boiling water before adding them to the dish.
Diced bacon, prosciutto, or even turkey bacon are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu.
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to a day in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pancetta: Use diced thick-cut bacon or prosciutto.
- Fresh Peas: Swap frozen peas with fresh peas; adjust the cooking time slightly. For extra veggies, try adding sautéed asparagus, spinach, or zucchini.
- Add Herbs: Stir in fresh parsley, basil, or mint for a burst of freshness. Brighten it up with fresh lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano before serving. Add heavy cream for a creamy peas dish.
- Spicy Kick: Amp the heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water if needed, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
If you have leftovers, toss them with hot pasta for an easy recipe.
My Pro Tip
Recipe Tips
- Use Quality Pancetta: Opt for high-quality pancetta for the best flavor—it’s the star of the dish!
- Don’t Overcook the Peas: Cook the peas until tender to keep their vibrant color and sweet flavor.
- Use Fresh Shallots: Finely chopped shallots add a mild, sweet flavor that complements the pancetta and peas.
- Crisp the Pancetta: For maximum texture and flavor, let the Pancetta cook until golden brown.
- Go Easy on the Oil: Pancetta releases fat as it cooks, so you may not need much additional olive oil.
- Add a Twist: Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan for extra flair and flavor.
More Recipes
Looking for other recipes to try? Here are some ideas:
Italian creamy pasta shells with peas and bacon, zucchini and onion, spinach quiche, and Italian Zucchini Fritters Recipe.
What To Serve With This Recipe
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this tasty side dish:
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Peas and Pancetta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ pound pancetta, diced (substitute bacon, if desired)
- 2 medium shallots, chopped
- 1 pound frozen peas
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Pancetta: Add the diced pancetta to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Shallots: Add the chopped shallots to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Peas: Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet with the shallots. Stir well to combine. Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through.
- Season and Combine: Season the peas with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Return the cooked pancetta to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the peas and pancetta to a serving dish. Serve immediately as a side dish or light meal.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This dish reminds me of my Nonna Laura’s cooking: simple, rustic, and always delish! I know you’ll love it, too!