Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about ease and freshness. It uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days. The sweetness of the peas pairs beautifully with the savory flavors, creating a balanced and comforting dish. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and can be made creamy or light depending on your preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- pasta (any shape)
- peas (fresh or frozen)
- onion or shallot
- garlic
- olive oil or butter
- grated parmesan cheese
- salt
- black pepper
- optional cream
Directions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion or shallot and cook until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the peas and cook for a few minutes until tender.
- If using cream, pour it in and let it gently simmer.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water.
- Add the pasta to the pan with the peas and toss to combine.
- Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with extra cheese on top.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 to 3 people.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15–20 minutes, making the total time approximately 25–30 minutes.
Variations
You can easily customize this dish. Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory boost, or include mushrooms for extra depth. For a brighter flavor, add lemon zest or juice. You can also make it vegan by skipping the cheese and using olive oil instead of butter.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to keep the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and are very convenient.
What type of pasta is best?
Short pasta like penne or shells works well, but any shape will do.
Can I make this dish creamy?
Yes, adding cream or extra cheese will create a richer sauce.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese.
Can I add protein?
Yes, chicken, shrimp, or bacon are great additions.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir it while cooking and use enough water.
Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, fresh peas are delicious but may need slightly longer cooking.
What cheese works best?
Parmesan is classic, but pecorino also works well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, skip the cheese and butter, and use olive oil instead.
How do I enhance the flavor?
Add herbs, lemon zest, or a pinch of chili flakes.
Conclusion
Pasta with Peas is a quick, comforting, and versatile dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Whether you keep it light or make it creamy, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
PrintPasta with Peas
A simple and comforting pasta dish combining tender pasta with sweet peas in a light, flavorful sauce that comes together quickly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boil
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion or shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cream (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add onion or shallot and cook until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
- Add peas and cook until tender.
- If using cream, pour it in and let it simmer gently.
- Drain pasta, reserving some pasta water.
- Add pasta to the pan and toss to combine.
- Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm with extra cheese on top.
Notes
- Add bacon or pancetta for extra flavor.
- Include mushrooms for more depth.
- Add lemon zest or juice for brightness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water or milk to prevent drying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
