Fettuccine Pasta with Spring Peas and Smoked Turkey
A dish combines tender fettuccine with sweet spring peas and savory smoked turkey for a simple yet flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fresh and satisfying.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Kitchen Tricks
Use fresh or frozen peas for the best sweetness and color.
Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.
Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed and help it cling to the noodles.
Ingredients
0/10
Why This Dish Is Hard To Resist
This dish combines creamy pasta with the fresh sweetness of spring peas and the smoky flavor of turkey. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. The balance of textures and flavors keeps every bite interesting.
Step 1
Heat some olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot, stirring them around until they smell amazing, about 30 seconds. Toss in the smoked turkey and cook just until it’s warmed through, about a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and turn the heat up to medium-high so it comes to a gentle boil. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the sauce thickens a bit, around 5 minutes.
Step 2
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite, roughly 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and return the sauce to low heat. Stir in the peas, then toss the pasta into the sauce to coat everything evenly. Add the tarragon and lemon zest, letting the flavors meld together for about a minute. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you need to. Serve it up in bowls and sprinkle each portion with a little Parmigiano-Reggiano for a nice finish.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few cracks of black pepper on top. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely to brighten the meal. For a touch of indulgence, add a drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving.
How To Store For Later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh green peas?
Yes, frozen peas work well. Just add them to the sauce a bit longer to ensure they’re heated through.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but the sauce may be less rich and thick.
How do I know when the sauce has thickened enough?
The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and have a slightly creamy consistency after simmering for about 5 minutes.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce in advance and reheat gently before adding pasta and peas.
What type of smoked turkey works best for this dish?
Smoked turkey breast or deli-style smoked turkey slices are ideal for quick warming without drying out.
Is there a good substitute for fresh tarragon?
You can use dried tarragon (use less) or try fresh basil or parsley for a different but pleasant flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together after cooking?
Drain the pasta well and toss it immediately with the sauce to keep it from sticking.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, asparagus tips or spinach can be added for extra flavor and texture. Add them during the last few minutes of simmering.
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