Pasta and Peas

Pasta and Peas is a delightful dish that transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen with each bite. This comforting recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and offers a creamy, satisfying blend of pasta and fresh peas, brought together by the rich flavor of olive oil. It works wonderfully because the ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both simple and indulgent.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick yet hearty meal, particularly during busy weeknights or when hosting friends. It also makes for a fantastic make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen if stored and reheated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy texture from the cheese complements the tender pasta beautifully.
• It’s an easy recipe that can be made in about 30 minutes.
• The combination of fresh and frozen peas adds vibrant color and sweetness.
• It’s ideal for both a family dinner and casual gatherings.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Pasta and Peas:

For the Pasta

• 1 lb ditalini (or other small shape pasta)

For the Sauce

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, finely diced
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (to taste)
• 4 cups water (more as needed)
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 14-16 oz baby peas (frozen or fresh)

For Serving

• 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated (or parmesan cheese)

Use fresh peas for a sweeter taste.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Any small pasta can replace ditalini.
• Olive oil can be swapped with butter.
• Pecorino Romano can be substituted with parmesan.
• Fresh garlic can replace jarred garlic.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish.

Heat the Oil and Onions

Add the olive oil and chopped onions to a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the onions until soft (4 – 5 minutes), ensuring they don’t brown.

Add Garlic and Peppers

Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes to the onions and continue to cook for 1 minute.

Combine Water and Peas

Add the water, salt, and baby peas to the onion mixture and bring to a boil, especially if using frozen peas.

Mash the Peas

Once boiling, remove some of the peas and mash them with a large spoon or fork.

Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta and mashed peas to the pot and reduce the heat to medium heat. Let the pasta cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring often to keep it from sticking. If needed, add more water until the pasta is cooked to your desired doneness.

Finish with Cheese

When the pasta reaches al dente, remove the pot from the stove and mix in the cheese and chopped parsley.

Season to Taste

Taste and season the pasta with peas to your preference using salt and black pepper. If the pasta seems dry, add a little water to loosen it up.

Serve

Serve the pasta with additional grated cheese, black pepper, and crusty bread.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the pasta may become mushy.
Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of water, about 5 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t skip mashing some of the peas for added creaminess.
• Stir frequently while cooking the pasta to prevent sticking.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a fresh touch.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Enjoy with a light white wine to enhance the flavors.