Description
Pasta and Peas is a classic Italian dish that is simple, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Made with tender pasta, sweet peas, and a light broth, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect as a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or a hearty side dish. With its mild flavors and creamy texture, it’s a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you make it creamy with parmesan or keep it light with olive oil, this recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1½ cups small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni)
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer taste)
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Optional Add-Ons:
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (for a creamy texture)
- ¼ cup crispy pancetta or bacon (for a smoky twist)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for extra freshness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for extra spice)
Ingredient Substitutes:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta alternatives like chickpea pasta or brown rice pasta.
- Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil and swap parmesan for nutritional yeast.
- High-Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Peas
- Add the peas to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the peas and broth.
- Toss everything together and gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese (if using).
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness.
- Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
For a richer, creamier version, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or 2 tablespoons cream cheese before adding the pasta. This creates a luscious, velvety texture that makes the dish even more comforting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Pasta and Peas, Easy Pasta Recipe, Quick Italian Pasta, Budget-Friendly Meals, One-Pot Pasta