Pasta e Piselli (Creamy Pasta with Peas)

Pasta e Piselli, means pasta with peas, and it's a beloved Italian dish and an easy pasta recipe that brings together simple ingredients for a delicious and comforting meal. Pasta and peas are cooked together in a creamy sauce, creating a rich and satisfying flavor. The sweetness of the peas blends perfectly with the cheese and pasta, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.

This easy-to-make vegetarian pasta dish is perfect for a quick dinner on busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delightful and nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced chef, pasta with peas is a great choice for a tasty and comforting homemade simple pasta dish.

For more simple recipes with pasta and peas, check out also these Tortellini alla Panna (Tortellini with Ham, Peas, and Cream Sauce) and this Pasta with Peas, Bacon and Goat Cheese.

🧾 Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this easy and delicious pasta with peas recipe.

• Pasta: Typically, small pasta shapes of dried pasta like ditalini, elbows, or small shells are used to hold the creamy sauce well.
• Peas: Fresh peas or frozen peas add a sweet and tender bite to the dish. Green peas are one of the main ingredients for the simple sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions, giving a rich base flavor.
• Onion: Chopped white onions provide a sweet and savory flavor foundation.
• Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Adds depth to the sauce and helps cook the pasta.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor to the creamy pea sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish to taste.

See the recipe card for quantities.

🍳 Substitutions

Here are some substitutions you can use for making this creamy green pea pasta:

1. Pasta: Substitute with any short pasta shapes like orzo, farfalle, or penne if preferred. You can also use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for this easy recipe.
2. Peas: You can use canned sweet peas or other green vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
3. Olive Oil: Use canola oil, vegetable oil, or butter for a different flavor.
4. Onion: Shallots or leeks can replace onions for a slightly different taste.

🥣 Variations

Here are some variations of this creamy Pasta with Peas:

1. Bacon or Pancetta: Add crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory twist, like this Pasta with Peas, Bacon, and Goat Cheese.
2. Lemon Zest and Juice: Incorporate lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.
3. Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and add fresh garlic for an earthy addition.
4. Spinach: Stir in fresh or frozen spinach for extra greens and nutrients.
5. Ham or Prosciutto: Add diced ham or prosciutto for a heartier, more substantial dish, like these classic Tortellini with Ham and Peas.
6. Creamy Pesto: Mix in a few spoonfuls of pesto for a fresh basil and garlic-infused variation.
7. Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and a slightly sweet taste.
8. Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of heat and spice.
9. Truffle Oil: Drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the finished dish for a gourmet touch.

📋 Instructions with Photos

Step 1. Sautè the minced onion in olive oil until it starts to golden.

Step 2. Add the peas and sautè a couple of minutes, then add some water or broth and cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 3. Remove half of the peas and blend with some water or broth, then pour them back to the pan.

Step 4. Add the pasta to the pan and the water or stock to cover. Keep adding water and mixing until fully cooked, to prevent the pasta from sticking. Add the grated cheese before serving.

Check the recipe card for the full recipe.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Pasta e Piselli is best enjoyed hot, straight from the stovetop, and can be garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and color.

Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, and pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. For a complete meal, consider adding a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

🔪 Equipment

To make this Italian pasta recipe you'll only need a large skillet and a hand blender or small food processor to make the pea cream.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers of Pasta e Piselli, transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave.

For stovetop reheating, place the pasta in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For microwave reheating, cover the container loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more cream, milk, or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

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