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Paglia e Fieno with Crispy Shallots

Paglia e Fieno with Crispy Shallots

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This classic Italian Paglia e Fieno (straw and hay) dish combines egg and spinach fettuccine with a rich, creamy Parmigiano-Reggiano sauce, crispy shallots, and savory prosciutto. A luxurious yet easy pasta recipe perfect for a cozy dinner.


Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb dried egg fettuccine

  • 1/2 lb dried spinach fettuccine

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 shallot, minced

  • 5 oz cubed prosciutto

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas (thawed if frozen)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crispy Shallots:

 
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced into rounds

  • 1 cup neutral oil (vegetable or avocado)

  • Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)


Instructions

  • Make the Crispy Shallots:

    • Add the sliced shallots and oil to a small saucepan or skillet.

    • Bring heat to medium-low/medium and fry, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 10 minutes).

    • Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

    • Season with flaky sea salt and set aside.

  • Prepare the Sauce:

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil.

    • Add minced shallots and prosciutto; cook for 3 minutes.

    • Pour in the cream, stir, and simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Cook fettuccine 2 minutes less than package instructions for al dente.

    • Add peas to the pasta water 2 minutes before the pasta is done.

  • Combine:

    • Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to transfer pasta and peas into the sauce.

    • Add ½ cup pasta cooking water and ½ cup cheese, tossing to coat.

    • Simmer until sauce thickens and pasta reaches al dente (about 2 minutes).

    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

  • Serve:

    • Top with remaining cheese, crispy shallots, and freshly cracked black pepper.

    • Enjoy immediately!


Notes

  • Cheese Options: Swap Parmigiano-Reggiano for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

  • Make it Vegetarian: Omit the prosciutto or substitute with sautéed mushrooms.

 

  • Extra Creamy: Stir in an extra splash of heavy cream before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg