Indulge in the comfort of a creamy and flavorful pasta dish with our Pasta with Peas recipe. This delightful combination of tender pasta and vibrant green peas will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With its velvety sauce and burst of freshness, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Get ready to savor a bowlful of pure satisfaction!
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Yield: Approximately 6 cups
Calories: 400 per serving
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and set aside.
Tip: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce later.
Step 2: In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
Tip: Sautéing the onion and garlic releases their flavors and adds depth to the dish.
Step 3: Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through.
Tip: Using frozen peas is convenient and ensures their freshness and vibrant color.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Tip: The cream and Parmesan cheese create a luscious and velvety sauce, coating the pasta and peas perfectly.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently in the creamy sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Taste the dish before adding salt, as the Parmesan cheese already adds a salty flavor.
Step 6: Serve the creamy pasta with peas in bowls or plates, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tip: Adding fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness to the dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or pancetta for a delicious twist and added texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the heavy cream and use a vegetarian-friendly alternative to Parmesan cheese.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle, to create a unique visual appeal.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a hint of heat and extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the sauce may thicken. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 400 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Thoughts:
Our Creamy Pasta with Peas recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the creaminess of the sauce and the freshness of peas. This recipe is simple to prepare but delivers a burst of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the delightful textures of this pasta dish—it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion!
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?
A1: Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used if they are in season. Boil them briefly before adding to the skillet.
Q2: Can I use a different type of cream?
A2: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with light cream or half-and-half for a lighter version of the dish.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
A3: Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pecorino, Gruyère, or cheddar to put your own twist on the recipe.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
A4: Absolutely!Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the pasta. Some great options include sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli florets. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
Q5: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A5: While it’s best to enjoy the Creamy Pasta with Peas immediately after preparing it, you can make some preparations ahead of time to save time on busy days. You can cook the pasta in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and continue with the recipe starting from Step 2. However, keep in mind that the cream sauce may thicken when reheated, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.
Q6: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A6: Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free version of the Creamy Pasta with Peas, you can use plant-based alternatives. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute. The result will be a creamy and flavorful pasta dish suitable for those with dairy restrictions or preferences.
Q7: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A7: While it’s possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. The cream sauce may separate, but you can try to re-emulsify it by gently heating and stirring. It’s recommended to consume the dish fresh for the best flavor and consistency.
Q8: How can I add some protein to this dish for a more substantial meal?
A8: If you’d like to increase the protein content of the dish, you can add cooked chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or even crumbled cooked sausage to the pasta. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the skillet along with the peas in Step 3. This will transform the Creamy Pasta with Peas into a protein-packed powerhouse meal.
