Peas with Ham (Spanish Guisantes con Jamón)

white bowl of peas and ham on counter with cutlery around.

Peas with Ham (Spanish Guisantes con Jamón)

Peas with ham is a classic Spanish side dish with many variations. It is made with only a few ingredients - like Serrano ham and fresh or frozen peas, making it a simple and versatile side dish that goes well with different mains.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Spanish

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Author Alba Luna Meyer

Ingredients

1/2 white onion
1 garlic clove
3 cups peas, frozen or fresh (deshelled if using fresh)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup serrano ham bits, (see notes)
1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

Peel the onion, cut it in half, and dice finely. Peel and mince the garlic clove.
If using fresh peas, deshell them.
In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for a couple more minutes until the onion and garlic are golden and fragrant.
Add the serrano ham bits and cook them on medium heat for about 1 minute, ensuring they don’t burn.
Add the peas to the pan, mix well, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes.
Serve as a side dish or as a light lunch or dinner with a fried egg on top.

Notes

You can use fresh or frozen peas - both versions are delicious.
For the best flavor, use Spanish Serrano ham or Iberian ham. Italian Parma ham is a good substitute. Buy a couple of thick slices and cut them into small bits. Alternatively, you can use bacon instead of ham - but it will noticeably change the flavor of the final dish.
If you don't like onions, you can skip them or add another vegetable such as leeks or shallots.
Avoid over-frying the ham to prevent it from becoming too salty.
Don't add too much salt to the peas since the fried serrano ham will already be quite salty.
Although not traditional, adding chili flakes can add a delicious spicy kick to the dish.

Nutrition

This nutritional information has been estimated by an online nutrition calculator. It should only be seen as a rough calculation and not a replacement for professional dietary advice.