Nani's Simple Pasta With Peas
This creamy pasta with sweet peas is a comforting, easy meal that comes together in one pan.
recipesbynani.comPasta with peas is one of those meals I reach for when I want something quick, filling, and genuinely delicious. It is a classic combination that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, especially on busy weeknights.
My favorite thing about this dish is how the starch from the pasta water creates a lovely sauce with the cheese. If you have any fresh mint on hand, toss a little bit in at the end for a bright, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peas.
🧺 Ingredients
- 12 ounces short pasta like shells or orecchiette
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or pasta water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional fresh mint leaves for garnish
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- 2
Add the frozen peas to the boiling water during the last two minutes of the pasta cooking time.
- 3
Drain the pasta and peas, but be sure to reserve about half a cup of the starchy cooking water before you drain them.
- 4
Return the pot to the stove over medium heat and melt the butter with the olive oil.
- 5
Add the garlic and cook for about one minute until it smells fragrant.
- 6
Toss the pasta and peas back into the pot, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and the cream or reserved pasta water.
- 7
Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and coats the pasta nicely.
- 8
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately with extra cheese on top.
💡 Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can add a splash of water or milk when reheating to bring the creamy texture back to life.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
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