Best Easy Piselli alla Romana Recipe

Sweet peas braised with prosciutto and lettuce in the Roman style. This mediterranean family side is fresh, light, and a healthy accompaniment rich in protein and spring flavor.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 170 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh or frozen peas 3 cups
  • prosciutto 3 oz
  • romaine lettuce 1 head
  • yellow onion 0.5 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • unsalted butter 1 tbsp
  • kosher salt 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • chicken broth 0.5 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 16 g 38%
Protein 10 g 24%
Fat 7 g 38%
Serving size 160g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Slice the onion thinly and shred the romaine lettuce. Dice the prosciutto into small strips for even flavor distribution.

  2. 2

    In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until butter melts but does not brown.

  3. 3

    Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until soft and translucent but not colored.

  4. 4

    Add prosciutto and cook gently over medium-low heat for 2 minutes, stirring, to infuse the fat with its flavor.

  5. 5

    Add peas and shredded lettuce. Stir, then pour in chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper; bring to a gentle simmer.

  6. 6

    Cover and braise over low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring once or twice. Remove lid and cook 2 more minutes to reduce excess liquid if desired.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving warm as a side dish.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Piselli alla Romana recipe?
Sweet peas are the primary ingredient in Piselli alla Romana, giving the dish its signature sweetness and tender texture. Prosciutto and romaine lettuce add savory and fresh notes, but it's the peas that set this classic Roman side apart.
Q. What cooking techniques help achieve perfect tenderness in this recipe?
Gentle braising is essential. After sautéing the onions and prosciutto, the peas and lettuce are simmered slowly over low heat with chicken broth. Keeping the heat low prevents overcooking and keeps the peas vibrantly green and tender.
Q. How can I avoid mushy peas in Piselli alla Romana?
To maintain the peas' texture, braise with the lid on over low heat just until they're cooked through (12–15 minutes), and remove the lid to finish. Avoid high heat or lengthy cooking, as this will make the peas mushy rather than tender.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving of Best Easy Piselli alla Romana Recipe has approximately 170 kcal and 10g of protein. The protein content is enhanced by the addition of prosciutto and peas, making it a nourishing side choice.
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