Quick Pasta with Peas
The ultimate comfort food, Quick Pasta with Peas is a creamy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. With a blend of sweet peas and tender pasta, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Make it tonight and taste the simplicity!
Equipment
- Calphalon 5-Quart Pot
- Storage Containers
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta I prefer small shapes here but any type works
- 2 cups frozen petite peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half, optional
- salt
- pepper
- freshly grated lemon zest
- minced fresh basil optional as desired
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial as it helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. I often choose small shapes, like shells or ditalini, because they pair so well with the peas.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare your colander in the sink. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in the colander, but keep the colander directly over the sink. This is where you’ll add the frozen petite peas.
- As the hot water drains, the steam will gently heat the peas—no additional cooking required! This method preserves their bright color and sweet flavor. Trust me, you’ll love the texture this way.
- Return the cooked pasta and peas to the same pot. The warmth of the pasta will help melt the butter when you add it in. Toss them gently together to combine.
- Now it’s time to add the finishing touches. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using), melding everything into a creamy goodness. If you’re not using cream, the butter and cheese will still create a delightful sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. I love adding a hint of freshly grated lemon zest for a bright finish. It makes such a difference!
- Before serving, give it a good toss to ensure everything is coated. Feel free to sprinkle in some minced fresh basil for an added layer of flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy! This dish is perfect as is, but you can always add more toppings if desired, like extra cheese or herbs.
- Leftovers? Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently in the microwave.
- Enjoy your Quick Pasta with Peas as a delightful meal any day of the week!
Notes
- Storage: Add leftovers, once cooled, to an airtight storage container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm through in 15-30 second increments in the microwave to serve.
- Pasta Shape: I prefer using small shaped pasta here, such as small shells, rings, ditalini, or orrechiette since they are easiest to eat with the peas.
- Flavor Enhancements: Top with salt, cracked black pepper, freshly grated lemon zest, minced fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, or crushed red pepper as you like.
- Peas Choice: I prefer “petite” frozen peas as they are less starchy, but regular peas work, too.