Pasta with Peas, or “Pasta e Piselli” as it’s known in Italy, is a dish that whispers of springtime and simple pleasures. Imagine twirling strands of perfectly cooked pasta, each bite bursting with the sweetness of fresh peas, all enveloped in a light, savory sauce. It’s a culinary hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share my version with you!

This humble dish has roots that run deep in Italian culinary tradition, particularly in the Veneto region. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness of Italian cooks, who have always known how to transform simple, seasonal ingredients into something truly extraordinary. For generations, families have gathered around tables to enjoy this comforting meal, passing down recipes and creating cherished memories.

What makes pasta with peas so universally loved? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly easy to make! It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time but craving something delicious and satisfying. The combination of creamy pasta, sweet peas, and a touch of Parmesan cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the little ones (or even the picky adults!). The delightful texture, the vibrant green color, and the comforting aroma all contribute to its enduring appeal. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta (penne, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Preparing the Pasta and Aromatics

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside. It’s crucial to salt your pasta water generously – this is your chance to season the pasta itself!
Sauté the onion: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want the onion to be nice and sweet, so don’t rush this step.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The red pepper flakes add a nice little kick, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Creating the Pea Sauce

Deglaze with broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a lot of flavor to the sauce. Let the broth simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Add the peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they are heated through and tender. Don’t overcook the peas, or they will lose their bright green color and become mushy.
Puree a portion of the peas (optional): For a creamier sauce, you can puree about half of the peas using an immersion blender or by transferring them to a regular blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids! This step is optional, but it really elevates the texture of the sauce. If you don’t have a blender, you can skip this step and still have a delicious dish.
Add cream (optional): If you’re using heavy cream, stir it into the skillet and simmer for a minute or two, until the sauce is slightly thickened. The cream adds richness and a luxurious texture to the dish. If you’re skipping the cream, you can add a little extra pasta water to help create a smoother sauce.

Combining and Finishing the Dish

Add the pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the pea sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas.
Season to taste: Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be sure to taste the sauce before adding salt, as the Parmesan cheese is already quite salty.
Add remaining olive oil: Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the pasta. This adds a nice sheen and extra flavor.
Serve immediately: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Tips and Variations

Add protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the pasta.
Use different vegetables: You can substitute other vegetables for the peas, such as asparagus, broccoli, or spinach.
Make it vegan: To make this dish vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. You can use nutritional yeast in place of the Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Use plant-based cream or extra vegetable broth instead of heavy cream.
Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
Fresh herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as mint, basil, or chives.
Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
Pasta shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Penne, farfalle, rigatoni, and shells all work well.
Make ahead: You can prepare the pea sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Detailed Notes on Ingredients

Pasta: I prefer using a short pasta shape like penne or farfalle for this dish, as they hold the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice.
Onion: Yellow onion is my go-to for this recipe, but you can also use white onion or shallots.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 2 cloves of fresh garlic.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional, but they add a nice little kick to the dish. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Vegetable Broth: You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth. If you’re using chicken broth, make sure it’s low-sodium.
Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are a convenient and affordable option. You can also use fresh peas, but they will need to be cooked for a longer time.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a luxurious texture to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. You can also use other fresh herbs, such as basil or mint.
Lemon Zest: Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish. Be sure to only zest the yellow part of the lemon, as the white pith is bitter.

Troubleshooting

Sauce is too thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Sauce is too thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the sauce.
Pasta is sticking together: To prevent the pasta from sticking together, be sure to cook it in plenty of salted water. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the cooking water.
Peas are over
Conclusion:
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. The sweetness of the peas perfectly complements the savory pasta, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes. I truly believe this Pasta with Peas recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly elegant, making it perfect for a casual family meal or even a light lunch with friends. But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Penne, farfalle, or even orecchiette would work beautifully. For a richer flavor, try adding a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan right before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating some crispy pancetta or prosciutto for a salty, savory kick. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors even further, adding a touch of zest that elevates the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
* For a vegetarian option: Simply omit any meat additions and enjoy the pure, unadulterated flavors of the pasta and peas. * For a heartier meal: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. * For a spicier kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the peas. * Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a perfect accompaniment. * Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply toss it with the cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights. I’ve made this Pasta with Peas countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, and I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something delicious and satisfying. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did you think of the flavors? Share your photos and comments with me – I can’t wait to see what you create! Let me know if you have any questions or need any help along the way. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this simple yet satisfying Pasta with Peas as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Print

Pasta with Peas: A Quick & Delicious Recipe

Total Time: This easy recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a flavorful honey-garlic glaze. Simply sear the chicken, then simmer in the sweet and savory sauce until tender and caramelized. Serve over rice or your favorite sides for a delicious weeknight meal.

Yield: Fluffy, golden-brown pancakes with a hint of vanilla, perfect for a weekend breakfast treat.

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy and comforting pasta with sweet peas, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. A quick and easy weeknight meal!

Ingredients

Creamy, cheesy chicken enchiladas with a flavorful homemade sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Instructions

This recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, then baked to perfection. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

Notes

Fluffy and flavorful Japanese milk bread, known for its soft, slightly sweet crumb. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own.

Prep Time: Fluffy, buttery brioche French toast baked in a rich custard. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Cook Time: This recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices, then baked to golden-brown perfection. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious and easy weeknight meal.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Pasta with Peas: A Quick & Delicious Recipe