Prosciutto Pasta Toss | A Simple 20-Minute Dinner

Some nights call for a dinner that’s quick, comforting, and just a little bit special. This Prosciutto Pasta Toss comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something warm and satisfying on the table.

With salty prosciutto, sweet peas, garlic, and a light olive oil–based sauce, this pasta comes together in under 20 minutes and uses simple pantry staples. It’s proof that you don’t need a heavy sauce or complicated steps to make a really satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 20 minutes
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Light but still filling
• Easy to customize with what you have on hand
• Perfect as a main dish or a side

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Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) linguine
• ½ cup fresh or frozen peas, thawed
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ½ pound thinly sliced prosciutto or deli ham, chopped
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

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How to Make Prosciutto Pasta Toss

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the linguine in salt water according to the package directions for al dente, adding the peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and tender—be careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Add the Prosciutto

Stir in the chopped prosciutto and cook briefly until warmed through and slightly crisped on the edges.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add the drained linguine and peas directly to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the olive oil and seasonings.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese just before serving and toss once more.

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Make It Your Own

This prosciutto pasta toss is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Try one of these simple variations to make it your own:

• Add a little heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili crisp for a subtle kick.
• Make it lemony: Finish with fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
• Go creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the end for more creaminess.
• Add more vegetable: Toss in the pan onion, shallot, baby spinach, tomatoes, asparagus tips, zucchini, or mushrooms during the final minutes of cooking.
• Swap the protein: Use pancetta, cooked bacon, shrimp or deli ham if you don’t have prosciutto on hand.
• Change the pasta: Linguine works great, but spaghetti noodles, fettuccine, or penne are all delicious options.
• Boost the cheese: Add extra Parmesan or finish with shaved Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

This recipe is meant to be flexible—don’t be afraid to adjust it to suit your tastes or pantry staples.

Tips for the Best Pasta Toss

• Reserve a little pasta water before draining—adding a splash can help loosen the pasta if needed.
• Slice the prosciutto thin for the best texture.
• Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor.
• Serve immediately while hot for the best taste.

Print

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Easy Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Toss in baby spinach or arugula at the end
• Swap linguine for spaghetti or fettuccine
• Add lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish

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What to Serve With Prosciutto Pasta

This pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Crusty bread or garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables
• A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes. While linguine works beautifully for this recipe, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne will all work well. Choose a pasta that holds up to a light olive oil sauce.

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Can I substitute prosciutto with something else?

Absolutely. Deli ham, pancetta, or even cooked bacon are great substitutes. If using bacon, cook it first and drain off excess grease before adding the garlic.

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Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

This pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or pasta water.

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Can I use frozen peas?

Yes. Frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just thaw them and add them during the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.

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How can I make this recipe creamier?

For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter at the end. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese for a richer finish.

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Is this prosciutto pasta kid-friendly?

Yes! The flavors are mild and approachable. If cooking for kids, you can reduce the black pepper slightly or leave it out altogether.

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What should I serve with prosciutto pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. It also works nicely as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

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Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms all work well. Add quick-cooking vegetables near the end so they stay tender and fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Prosciutto Pasta Toss is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick, flexible, and full of flavor without being heavy. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or looking for an easy but impressive dinner, this pasta delivers every time.

If you try it, be sure to save it—you’ll want it in regular rotation.