Pasta with Peas

Pasta with peas is one of those simple, comforting dishes that can be whipped up in no time yet tastes like a treat. It’s a fresh, vibrant meal that combines sweet peas, aromatic garlic and onion, and the richness of butter and parmesan cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels both light and satisfying. Plus, it uses pantry staples and frozen peas, making it easy to prepare anytime you need a quick and delicious meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This pasta with peas recipe stands out because it’s effortless, flavorful, and versatile. The peas add a pop of color and a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy, salty parmesan. The addition of fresh mint leaves introduces a refreshing twist that elevates the dish beyond your typical pasta dinner. It’s also incredibly adaptable — you can change the pasta shape, add protein, or swap out herbs to suit your taste. The best part? It’s a balanced dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, making it perfect for any season.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) dried pasta – any shape you prefer; penne, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully. (Note 1)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces (280g) frozen peas, no need to thaw
• 2 tablespoons mint leaves, chopped (Note 3)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated (vegetarian parmesan preferred)

How To Make Pasta with Peas

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the finely diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.

Step 3: Add Peas

Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes until the peas are heated through and tender but still vibrant green.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Peas

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the peas and onion. Toss everything together over low heat. If the mixture looks dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Add Mint and Season

Stir in the chopped mint leaves, then season the pasta generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything again to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Give it one final toss to melt the cheese slightly and coat the pasta with a delicious, creamy finish.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your pasta with peas immediately, garnished with a few extra mint leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan on top. Enjoy with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Reserve pasta water: The starchy water is perfect for loosening up the sauce and helping it cling to the pasta.
• Use fresh mint: Fresh mint adds brightness and a subtle herbal note that pairs beautifully with peas.
• Don’t overcook the peas: Cooking the peas just until heated keeps them tender and vibrant, enhancing both texture and taste.
• Choose your pasta shape wisely: Shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce and peas well, offering a balanced bite.
• Vegetarian parmesan: Be sure to use parmesan that does not contain animal rennet if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly option.

Variations and Customizations

• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken strips, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Swap herbs: Try basil, parsley, or dill instead of mint for different flavor profiles.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a subtle kick.
• Use lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit of zest brightens the dish and complements the peas wonderfully.
• Go dairy-free: Replace butter with additional olive oil and omit parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta with peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out, and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the pea’s texture and the freshness of the herbs.

FAQ

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas are delicious in this recipe. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes before adding to the sautéed onion and garlic to ensure they cook evenly.

What pasta shape works best for this dish?

This recipe is flexible, but short, ridged pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best because they hold onto the sauce and peas nicely. You can also use spaghetti or linguine if you prefer.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter and use a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast in place of the cheese. This will still give you a rich, flavorful dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and peas ahead and store them separately, then combine and reheat with fresh herbs and cheese just before serving. However, the dish tastes best when served fresh.

Conclusion

Pasta with peas is a timeless, easy-to-make dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Its fresh peas, fragrant garlic, and bright mint make it a perfect choice for a quick dinner or a lovely lunch. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that anyone can master and customize to their liking. Keep this recipe in your weeknight rotation for a comforting, delicious pasta dish that always hits the spot.