Description
This Juicy Pasta and Peas recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Learn how to make creamy pasta and peas with simple ingredients and easy steps, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- Frozen peas
- Butter
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Heavy cream for extra creaminess
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Peas: Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the peas. Pour in a little of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened. If desired, add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs like mint or basil to brighten the flavors.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta for extra protein.
- A touch of lemon zest can provide a zesty twist.
- Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: pasta and peas, pasta with peas, creamy pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, Italian pasta, pea pasta