We’re having a bit of a crazy spring here in the Netherlands (what’s new?); some days are warm and sunny — I dare say almost ‘summery’ — while others are gray, cold, windy and rainy. Like today. I bet I’ll need my thick coat when I walk Pastis in a bit. Uggh…
Isn’t it fun to complain about the weather? People say it’s a ‘Dutch thing’. I’m not sure. What I do know is that I never complained about the weather when I lived in the US. Each season in Jersey was as expected, and summers were hot and lasted forever. I know my parents back home, for example, went through a very rough winter this past year (and had enough to complain about!), while here, we were very much spared. But it’s already getting warm there… and I’m envious as heck!

I guess the only thing predictable about the seasons is what I put on my table. Seasonal cooking, at least, will never let me (or anyone) down. Here is a wonderful springtime recipe you can make in almost no time. So fresh and delicious, too.

Gnocchi with Ham, Peas & Shallots
Serves 4

• 40g butter
• 6 shallots, quartered
• 250g cured ham, diced
• 300g peas
• fleur de sel & freshly-ground pepper
• 125ml good-quality chicken stock
• 500g gnocchi
• flat leaf parsley, chopped
• Parmesan

Melt the butter in a large frying pan and add the shallots. Allow them to cook gently for about 5 minutes. Add the ham and cook it with the shallots for 3 minutes. Add the peas with some salt and pepper and follow with the stock. Turn up the heat a bit, put the lid on the pan and leave this to cook for 6 minutes. Add the gnocchi, cover and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the parsley and as much freshly grated Parmesan as you wish. Enjoy!