Pasta with Peas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy weeknight meal
• Comforting and satisfying
• Sweet peas add fresh flavor and color
• Simple ingredients with delicious results
• Great vegetarian meal option
• Easy to customize with protein or extra vegetables
• Perfect for busy schedules

Ingredients

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

• 12 ounces pasta such as penne or shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups peas fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley optional for garnish
• Red pepper flakes optional

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the peas and cook until heated through and tender.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
8. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Toss everything together until well combined.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add heavy cream or ricotta cheese.
• Protein Addition: Include chicken, bacon, pancetta, or shrimp.
• Lemon Pasta: Add lemon zest and juice for brightness.
• Herb Twist: Add basil, mint, or thyme.
• Extra Vegetables: Include spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pasta with peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating also works for quick meals.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.

FAQs

What pasta works best for pasta with peas?

Penne, shells, spaghetti, or orecchiette all work very well.

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas are convenient and work perfectly.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is vegetarian when using vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this creamy?

Yes, cream, ricotta, or mascarpone cheese create a richer sauce.

What proteins pair well with this dish?

Chicken, shrimp, pancetta, bacon, or salmon pair wonderfully.

Why reserve pasta water?

Pasta water helps create a silky sauce that coats the noodles.

Can I add lemon?

Yes, lemon adds freshness and brightness to the dish.

What herbs pair well with peas?

Mint, parsley, basil, and thyme all complement peas nicely.

Is pasta with peas healthy?

It can be a balanced meal with vegetables, pasta, and moderate cheese.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, though it tastes best freshly prepared.

Conclusion

Pasta with Peas is a simple and comforting dish that combines tender pasta, sweet peas, and savory cheese into an easy meal full of flavor. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this classic recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite protein, it’s a delicious and timeless comfort food favorite.

Pasta with Peas

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Pasta with Peas is a simple and comforting dish featuring tender pasta, sweet peas, garlic, and Parmesan cheese tossed in a light savory sauce. This quick and satisfying recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta such as penne or shells
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups peas, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the peas and cook until heated through and tender.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and a little reserved pasta water until a light sauce forms.
8. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

• Add heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a creamier sauce.
• Chicken, shrimp, pancetta, or bacon make excellent protein additions.
• Lemon zest and juice add bright fresh flavor.
• Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or thyme pair beautifully with peas.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg