Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Growing up in an Italian household, pasta e piselli (pasta and peas) was a staple comfort food. My grandmother would make it on busy weeknights because it was quick, affordable, and always satisfying. This simple dish blends tender pasta, sweet peas, and a creamy, flavorful sauce—all made in one pot for easy cleanup!

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In this article, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, pro cooking tips, and variations to make this dish your own. Plus, I’ll share a trick to get the perfect creamy texture without using heavy cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this classic one-pot pasta and peas dish:

Pasta – Traditional choices include ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni.
Olive oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Garlic – Freshly minced for a rich, aromatic base.
Onion – Diced yellow or white onion adds natural sweetness.
Peas – Fresh or frozen; frozen peas work best for convenience.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Enhances the depth of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese – For a creamy, umami-rich finish.
Salt & Pepper – To taste.
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the onions and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Peas

Add the peas to the pan and stir for about 2 minutes.
Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and let the peas soften.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in One Pot

Add the pasta directly into the pot with the broth and peas.
Stir occasionally and let the pasta absorb the broth while cooking.
If needed, add extra broth to keep it from drying out.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan & Olive Oil

Once the pasta is cooked al dente, remove from heat.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Pro Tips for the Best Pasta and Peas

💡 For Extra Creaminess: Mash a small portion of the peas before serving to create a natural creamy texture—no heavy cream needed!
💡 Want More Protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for extra flavor.
💡 Best Pasta Choice? Small shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells work best because they hold the sauce well.

Recipe Variations

🌱 Vegan Version

Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Add a splash of coconut cream for extra creaminess.

🍅 Tomato-Based Version

Stir in canned diced tomatoes for a more robust, slightly tangy version.

🧄 Garlic Butter Upgrade

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter with minced garlic before adding the broth.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:
🥗 A fresh Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
🍞 A slice of Homemade Garlic Bread
🍷 A glass of light white wine like Pinot Grigio

Storage & Reheating Tips

📌 Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
📌 Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring back the creamy texture.
📌 Avoid freezing as pasta tends to become mushy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

Yes, but they’ll be softer. Frozen peas retain a firmer texture and a fresher taste.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Small shapes like ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni work best.

How can I make it richer in flavor?

Try adding a Parmesan rind while cooking or a splash of white wine to the broth.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta and Peas recipe is simple, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s an easy go-to meal that comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you keep it traditional or add your own twist, this dish is sure to be a family favorite!

👩‍🍳 About the Author

This recipe was crafted by Mary, a passionate home cook who loves creating easy, delicious, and healthy meals. Having spent years experimenting in the kitchen, Mary shares tried-and-true recipes to help home cooks bring joy to their meals.

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