Pasta and Peas Recipe
Pasta and Peas Recipe
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Pasta and Peas Recipe
This delightful pasta and peas recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the sweetness of peas and the heartiness of pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, it showcases fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
Description
Pasta and peas recipe is a classic Italian dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. With just a few ingredients, this recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a delicious and nutritious meal. The combination of al dente pasta and tender peas is elevated by a light sauce, often flavored with garlic and Parmesan, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or proteins such as chicken or shrimp. Whether you choose to serve it as a main dish or as a side, pasta and peas is always a crowd pleaser.
To prepare this dish, start by cooking your pasta in salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Fresh or frozen peas can be added to the boiling water in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to retain their bright green color and sweet flavor. Once drained, the pasta and peas can be tossed with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious finish.
This pasta and peas recipe not only highlights the simplicity of Italian cooking but also demonstrates how easy it is to create a healthy meal. Peas are packed with nutrients, providing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. When paired with whole grain or legume based pasta, this dish becomes a well rounded option that satisfies both the palate and the body.
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of about 15 minutes, you can whip up this meal in under half an hour. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re short on time but still want a wholesome dinner. This pasta and peas recipe serves four, making it ideal for families or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until tender. If using frozen peas, you can add them directly to the pasta during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine: Pour the garlic oil over the pasta and peas. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
you may like : Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Pasta and Peas Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta such as penne or fusilli
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Add Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes until tender. If using frozen peas, you can add them directly to the pasta during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine: Pour the garlic oil over the pasta and peas. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or ricotta, for a unique twist.
