Discover the delightful simplicity of Italian pasta with peas. It’s a classic recipe that combines pasta’s comforting flavors with fresh peas’ nutritious goodness. This one-pot wonder is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for quick weeknight pasta dishes or family-friendly pasta meals.
With its budget-friendly ingredients and easy preparation, this vegetarian pasta dish is a go-to solution. It’s a healthy pasta recipe that the whole family will enjoy.
Key Takeaways
- This pasta and peas recipe can be made in just 20 minutes with only 4 simple ingredients.
- It’s a convenient one-pot meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients like frozen peas and pantry staples.
- Peas are a nutritious legume, high in plant-based protein and other essential nutrients.
- Parmesan cheese adds creamy richness without the need for heavy cream.
What is Pasta e Piselli?
A Traditional Italian Favorite
Pasta e Piselli, or pasta with peas, is a favorite in Italy. It comes from the central and southern parts of the country. This dish has been loved for generations, showing Italy’s skill in making simple ingredients into a delicious meal.
Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor
The charm of Pasta e Piselli is its simplicity. It uses a few main ingredients like small pasta, peas, onions, Parmesan cheese, and spices. These ingredients mix to make a creamy sauce that covers the pasta well. Despite being simple, Pasta e Piselli has a rich flavor that makes it a classic among traditional italian pasta recipes and classic italian pasta dishes.
This recipe is a great example of how easy pasta recipes and quick weeknight pasta can be both simple pasta dishes and very satisfying. With its mix of pasta e piselli, it brings authentic Italian taste that will please your senses.
Pasta and Peas Recipes: A Versatile Combination
Customizable for Any Dietary Preference
Pasta and peas dishes are incredibly versatile. They can be tailored to fit any diet, from vegetarian to vegan. This classic Italian mix can be modified to suit your taste. You can enjoy vegetarian pasta dishes or vegan pasta recipes with pasta and peas.
To make a vegetarian version, skip the pancetta or bacon. Instead, sauté onions and garlic in extra virgin olive oil. For a vegan option, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative.
Want to add protein to your pasta with peas recipes? Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The options are endless for making this dish fit your dietary needs and taste.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Uncooked Pasta | 8 oz |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Yellow Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Frozen Peas | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese (or Pecorino Romano) | 1/4 cup, grated |
This dish’s versatility lets you try many vegetarian pasta dishes, vegan pasta recipes, and pasta with peas recipes. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy this Italian classic that fits your lifestyle and taste.
The Key Ingredients
Making the perfect pasta e piselli, or Italian pasta with peas, needs a few key traditional Italian pasta ingredients. The dish’s heart is in the mix of simple, yet tasty parts. These parts come together to make a meal that’s both comforting and fulfilling.
The pasta is at the dish’s core. Small conchiglie (shell-shaped) pasta is a top pick. Its shape traps the creamy sauce well. For peas, you can use fresh snow peas (about 800 grams) or frozen peas (around 300 grams). Both add sweetness and texture.
To start, a chopped brown onion is sautéed in extra virgin olive oil until it’s soft and smells great. Then, the peas are added and cooked a bit to make a creamy sauce. A good amount of Pecorino Romano cheese is sprinkled on top. It adds a savory, nutty flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (conchiglie) | 300 grams |
| Fresh snow peas | 800 grams |
| Frozen peas | 300 grams |
| Brown onion, chopped | 1/2 onion |
| Pecorino Romano cheese | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
These pasta e piselli ingredients blend together to make the dish’s unique flavors and textures. By picking and mixing these ingredients carefully, you can enjoy a delicious and true pasta with peas experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pasta and Peas
To make perfect pasta with peas, start by cooking the pasta as the package says until it’s al dente. Drain it, keeping a cup of the cooking water. In a big skillet, cook diced onions and pancetta in olive oil until the onions are clear and the pancetta is crispy.
Next, add the frozen peas and let them cook for a few minutes. Stir them now and then until they’re tender and bright green.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
To make the creamy sauce, blend some cooked peas in a blender or food processor until smooth. Put the puréed peas back in the skillet. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Toss everything together. The starch from the pasta water helps make the sauce creamy and smooth. This makes a delicious, one-pot dish.
Finally, add freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, some fresh marjoram, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This makes the dish comforting and a family favorite.
Tips and Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
Getting the perfect pasta texture is crucial for a great Pasta e Piselli dish. To make sure your pasta is al dente and the dish creamy, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Watch the cooking time closely and take it off the heat when it’s almost done. It will soften more as it cooks in the sauce.
- Adjust the liquid-to-pasta ratio. The right amount of liquid is key for a creamy texture. Start with less liquid than the recipe suggests, adding more as needed to get the right consistency.
- Use the starchy pasta water. This liquid is a secret for a smooth sauce. Save a cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta. Use it to thin out the sauce if needed.
By using these pasta texture tips, you’ll get the creamy, dreamy texture that makes this how to make creamy pasta dish so tempting.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage and reheating are crucial for your delicious Pasta e Piselli leftovers. These steps will help you enjoy your pasta and peas dish again.
Storing Leftover Pasta e Piselli
To store your leftover Pasta e Piselli, put it in an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for 2-3 days. Frozen peas are best because they stay bright and firm.
Canned peas are okay too, but they need more care.
Reheating Pasta e Piselli
There are a few ways to reheat your leftovers:
- On the stovetop: Add a bit of pasta water, chicken broth, or water. Reheat over medium heat, stirring often, until it’s hot.
- In the microwave: Put the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 30-second bursts. Stir between each heating until it’s hot.
Adding a little liquid helps the sauce stay creamy and the pasta moist.
Follow these easy tips to enjoy your Pasta e Piselli leftovers. Savor every bite of this Italian classic, even with leftovers.
Variations and Add-Ins
Pasta e Piselli is a classic Italian dish that you can make your own. It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone wanting to try new tastes. There are many ways to make it your own.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
To make it vegetarian or vegan, just skip the pancetta and use a plant-based cheese instead. Vegetarian pasta recipes can include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. These add flavor and texture.
For vegan pasta dishes, top it with a creamy sauce made from cashews or almonds. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or hemp seeds for a nice crunch.
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Diced zucchini
- Roasted bell peppers
- Creamy cashew or almond-based sauce
- Toasted pine nuts or hemp seeds
Pasta e Piselli is very flexible. You can make it fit your diet, so everyone can enjoy it.
“The beauty of this dish is that it can be easily adapted to suit any dietary need or personal preference. Get creative with your favorite vegetable add-ins and plant-based cheese alternatives.”
Pasta and Peas Recipes: A Nutritious and Satisfying Meal
Pasta e Piselli, or pasta with peas, is a beloved Italian dish. It’s not just tasty but also very healthy. Green peas add a lot of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins to your meal.
This dish is great because you can make it your own. You can add ham or pancetta for extra protein. The creamy sauce and tender peas make it a cozy meal any day.
Pasta and peas are also easy on your wallet. They cost about $1.20 per serving. With a rating of 4.85 out of 5 from 13 votes, everyone will enjoy it.
Whether you prefer the classic version or want to try something new, this dish is a winner. It’s a healthy and tasty addition to your pasta collection.
Conclusion
Pasta e Piselli, or Pasta with Peas, is a true classic Italian pasta recipe. It shows the simple yet comforting side of Italian food. This dish is quick to make, perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers.
It combines fresh or frozen peas with a creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta. This mix makes a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, loved by all.
The beauty of easy one-pot pasta dishes like Pasta e Piselli is their flexibility. You can make it vegetarian or add your favorite protein. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make this dish your own. It will soon become a favorite in your kitchen.
Exploring classic Italian pasta recipes is exciting. The secret to a great dish is using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to how you prepare them. By following the advice in this article, you’ll get better at making Pasta e Piselli. Soon, you’ll be able to create a dish that brings Italy’s flavors to your home.
FAQ
What is Pasta e Piselli?
Pasta e Piselli, or pasta with peas, is a traditional Italian dish. It comes from central and southern Italy. It’s made with small pasta, fresh or frozen peas, and a few basic ingredients.
What are the key ingredients in Pasta e Piselli?
The main ingredients are pasta, peas, onions, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. These create the dish’s unique flavor and texture.
How do you make Pasta e Piselli?
To make Pasta e Piselli, start by sautéing onions. Then add peas. Cook the pasta in the broth. Blend some peas to make a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture for Pasta e Piselli?
For the perfect texture, don’t overcook the pasta. Adjust the liquid-to-pasta ratio. Use starchy pasta water to bind the sauce and make it creamy.
How can you store and reheat leftover Pasta e Piselli?
Store leftover Pasta e Piselli in the fridge. Reheat it to revive the flavors and textures.
What are some variations of the Pasta e Piselli recipe?
You can make vegetarian or vegan versions. Replace pancetta or Parmesan with plant-based options to suit different diets.
What are the nutritional benefits of Pasta e Piselli?
Pasta e Piselli is nutritious and filling. It’s packed with green peas, which are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
