Pasta with Peas Recipe

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with ingredients I usually have on hand. The sweet peas pair perfectly with tender pasta, while garlic, onion, and Parmesan create a rich, savory flavor without making the dish feel heavy. I also appreciate how easy it is to customize with additional vegetables or protein.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• pasta such as ditalini, shells, penne, or farfalle
• frozen or fresh green peas
• olive oil
• unsalted butter
• onion, finely chopped
• garlic, minced
• vegetable broth or chicken broth
• grated Parmesan cheese
• fresh parsley, chopped
• salt
• black pepper
• red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
2. I reserve a small amount of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
3. I heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. I cook the onion until softened, then stir in the garlic until fragrant.
5. I add the peas and broth, allowing the peas to cook until tender.
6. I stir in the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
7. I add the Parmesan cheese along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light, silky sauce.
8. I season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
9. I garnish the pasta with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add crispy pancetta or bacon for a smoky flavor. I enjoy stirring in baby spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms for extra vegetables. When I want additional protein, I mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans. I also like finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Pasta with Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze portions for up to 2 months, although the pasta may become slightly softer after thawing. I reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes. I usually use frozen peas because they are convenient and cook quickly without needing to be thawed first.

Which pasta works best for this recipe?

I like using ditalini, shells, penne, farfalle, or any pasta shape that holds the light sauce well.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes. I simply use vegetable broth and vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese or omit the cheese if I prefer.

How can I make the dish creamier?

I sometimes stir in a splash of heavy cream, mascarpone, or ricotta cheese for an extra creamy texture.

What should I serve with Pasta with Peas?

I enjoy serving it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I love making Pasta with Peas because it is quick, comforting, and full of fresh, simple flavors. The combination of tender pasta, sweet peas, and savory Parmesan creates a satisfying meal that works for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners. It is an easy recipe that I find myself returning to whenever I want something delicious with minimal effort.

Pasta with Peas Recipe

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Pasta with Peas is a simple, comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender pasta and sweet green peas tossed in a light, savory sauce with garlic, onion, and Parmesan. It’s a quick and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as an easy side dish.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Pasta such as ditalini, shells, penne, or farfalle
• Frozen or fresh green peas
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Vegetable broth or chicken broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
2. Reserve a small amount of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the onion until softened, then stir in the garlic until fragrant.
5. Add the peas and broth, cooking until the peas are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
7. Add the Parmesan cheese along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light, silky sauce.
8. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

• Frozen peas can be added directly without thawing.
• Add crispy pancetta or bacon for a smoky variation.
• Stir in baby spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for added protein.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to restore the sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 18 mg