Paglia e fieno – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: 4 servings
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: 4 servingsPaglia e fieno translates to ‘straw and hay’ in Italian, a classic pasta dish that beautifully marries the vibrant colors and flavors of green spinach and golden egg noodles. Traditionally hailing from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, this dish is typically paired with a creamy sauce featuring elements such as pancetta, peas, and sometimes mushrooms, making it a delightful harmony of texture and taste.
Ingredients
- fresh egg pasta – 250 g / 8.8 oz
- fresh spinach pasta – 250 g / 8.8 oz
- pancetta – 150 g / 5.3 oz, diced
- fresh green peas – 100 g / 3.5 oz
- heavy cream – 200 ml / 0.8 cup
- Parmigiano-Reggiano – 50 g / 1.8 oz, grated
- unsalted butter – 30 g / 2 tbsp
- shallot – 1, finely chopped
- garlic – 1 clove, minced
- olive oil – 1 tbsp
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook both pastas together until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy.
- Add butter to the skillet, then stir in chopped shallot and garlic. Sauté until the shallot becomes translucent.
- Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano to the sauce, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- pancetta -> bacon
- fresh spinach pasta -> regular spinach pasta
- Parmigiano-Reggiano -> Grana Padano
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add mushrooms for a richer texture.
- Consider adding a touch of white wine during cooking for depth of flavor.
- Use a mix of fresh herbs such as basil and thyme for an aromatic boost.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
