pasta with peas
This delightful pasta dish combines tender peas with al dente pasta, creating a simple yet flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, the dish is light, healthy, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with a vegan alternative for dairy-free version.
- ¼ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the peas to the pot so they cook together.
- Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water, and then drain the pasta and peas in a colander.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Return the drained pasta and peas to the pot. Add salt, black pepper, and the reserved pasta cooking water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
You can substitute Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or asparagus for added nutrition.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave.