Snap Peas with Pancetta

Source: Barefoot Contessa: How Easy is That? by Ina Garten

adapted by http://theresalwaysthyme.blogspot.com/

1 tablespoon salt

1 pound sugar peas, trimmed

1/4 pound pancetta, diced

1/2 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1/4 cup minced red onion

5 tablespoons freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

salt and freshly ground black pepper

My notes -- Instead of blanching you can also steam the snap peas in the microwave on high power for about 6 minutes, then drain in a colander and immerse in ice water. I also served it warm, so I heated it again in the microwave for about 2 minutes before I added the vinaigrette and bacon. It loses it's bright green color but tastes delicious!

Bring 2-3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot and add 1 tablespoon salt. Fill a large bowl with ice water and have a colander ready in the sink. Put the snap peas into the boiling water for about 15 seconds, drain in the colander in the sink, and immediately put them in the bowl with the ice water. Cool completely and drain. Cut each snap pea in half lengthwise and place in bowl.

Meanwhile, place the pancetta and 1 tablespoon of water in a medium saute pan and cook over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until the pancetta is browned evenly and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to cool.

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice. Pour vinaigrette over the snap peas, add the red onion, pancetta, and Pecorino. Toss well and season with salt and pepper, to taste.