Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bowl of delicious pasta and peas with Parmesan cheese and basil.

pasta and peas recipe

  • Author: Amanda
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This pasta and peas recipe is a quick, creamy, and delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines pasta, sweet peas, parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream for a comforting and satisfying dish. An easy pasta with peas recipe the whole family will love!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (such as penne, spaghetti, or rotini)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the drained pasta and peas to the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Use Fresh or Frozen Peas: While frozen peas are convenient, fresh peas can add an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
  • Don’t Overcook the Peas: Adding the peas during the last few minutes of pasta cooking ensures they remain tender and vibrant.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps to create a creamier sauce by emulsifying the cream and cheese.
  • Adjust the Creaminess: Add more or less cream based on your preference. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk.
  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta.
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: pasta and peas, pasta with peas, easy pasta recipe, cream pasta with peas, parmesan pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta recipe, weeknight meal

Did you make this recipe?

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

Find it online: https://quickyrecipes.com/pasta-and-peas-recipe/