This easy recipe for Peas with Prosciutto + Ricotta is the perfect side dish for spring! Sweet, tender peas sautéed with salty prosciutto, served over creamy, lemony whipped ricotta cheese and finished with fresh mint. It's a great recipe for Easter, Mother's Day or any springtime occasion!
1tablespoonextra virgin olive oilplus more for drizzling
3ouncesthinly sliced prosciuttoroughly chopped
2clovesgarlicsmashed
1shallotthinly sliced
salt and pepperto taste
½lbfrozen peasdefrosted (use "petite" peas if you can find them)
½lbsugar snap peashalved*
1 ½cupswhole milk ricotta cheese
1 ½teaspoonsfresh lemon zest
1tablespoonchopped fresh mint
Instructions
Pour olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and stir to break it apart for about 1 minute, then add the garlic and shallots.
Season lightly with salt and pepper, then cook until the shallots are translucent, but not browned, about 3 minutes.
Add the defrosted peas and sugar snap peas, then cook while stirring and tossing constantly until softened, about 5 minutes.
If the pan seems a bit dry, add a few tablespoons of water to help things along. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
While the peas cook, add the ricotta and lemon zest to a medium bowl, then use a whisk to whip it up until light and fluffy.
Spread the ricotta onto a serving platter or bowl, then spoon the peas over top. Sprinkle with fresh mint, then drizzle with plenty of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately.
Notes
*If desired, you can omit the sugar snap peas and use 1 whole pound of frozen peas instead.