Barilla Orzo Pasta with Peas and Crispy Pancetta
Barilla Orzo Pasta with Peas and Crispy Pancetta
Italian pancetta tops this creamy mix of peas, parsley and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
30 minutes total
Inspired by 'Letters to Juliet', this recipe by Chef Lorenzo Boni is a love letter to the Veneto region in Italy, where the romantic comedy was set. Crispy pancetta pairs beautifully with al dente Barilla Orzo pasta for a romantic dinner, or your next al fresco summer party.
Best served with Ruffino Lumina Pinot Grigio
Taste profile: Medium-bodied, lively, and elegant, with notes of lemon peel.
Classic Authentic Italian Recipes

Ingredients
Serves 6
1/2 box | Barilla Orzo pasta |
1/2 cup | Italian parsley leaves |
3 tbsp | extra virgin olive oil, divided |
1/4 cup | yellow onion, chopped |
10 oz | thawed spring peas |
6 oz | cubed pancetta |
1 tbsp | potato starch |
1 tbsp | water |
2 tbsp | vegetable oil |
To taste | salt and black pepper |
1/2 cup | Parmigiano Reggiano cheese |
For the cheese sauce
1/2 cup | heavy cream |
1/2 cup | Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated |
Disclaimer
Individuals with allergies or specific dietary concerns should verify that the ingredients they utilize for the recipes comply with their restrictions. *Such a line meets the VEGAN, GLUTEN FREE, LACTOSE-FREE AND KOSHER needs
Method
Step 1
For the fried parsley: Mix 1 tbsp potato starch with 1 tbsp water in a medium-sized bowl. Dip parsley leaves in mixture. Heat medium-sized pan with vegetable oil and fry parsley leaves in oil for a few seconds.
Step 2
For the cheese sauce: Bring cream to boil, turn off heat, add cheese and stir continuously until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3
Place a pot of water to boil, cook Barilla Orzo pasta for 6 minutes.
Step 4
Meanwhile, in a pot, sauté onion with 1/2 olive oil for 3 minutes. Add peas and 2 cups pasta cooking water, bring back to boil, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5
Process in the blender 4/5 of peas with some water and parsley. Be careful processing hot sauce, always start by pulsing at low speed.
Step 6
Meanwhile, render pancetta over medium heat until crispy, and discard fat.
Step 7
Drain Barilla Orzo pasta and toss with pea mixture over high heat until perfectly coated in sauce. Turn heat off, let rest 2 minutes. Fold in cheese and remaining olive oil.
Step 8
Serve with pancetta and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese sauce drizzled over the top.

Orzo
Orzo is a small, rice-like pasta that adds Mediterranean flair to any dish. Its versatility shines in soups and salads, making it a go-to option for Canadian cooks looking to infuse their meals with a touch of premium, Mediterranean charm.
- Shape Mini and Soup
- Cook time 9 mins
- Pack size 340 g
- Range Classic Blue Box
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