(Piselli Freschi)

MAKES 3 CUPS

A version of this dish is served at Coco Lezzone in Florence. If fresh unshelled peas aren't available at your local farmers' market or grocery store, check the internet for a source for them year-round.

1 small handful of fresh parsley
3 cups shelled fresh peas (about 2 1⁄2 lbs. unshelled)
1⁄2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1⁄4 cup finely diced prosciutto (2 1⁄2 oz.)
1 tsp. sugar
1 clove garlic, peeled
Salt

1. Tie a parsley together with kitchen twine and put into a medium pot. Add peas, 1 cup of water, olive oil, proscuitto, sugar, garlic, and salt to taste and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer peas, stirring occasionally, until soft (times will vary, depending on size of peas).

2. Remove and discard garlic and parsley and adjust seasonings. Spoon the peas and cooking liquid onto a large platter and serve hot.