Who could resist a steaming hot plate of pasta tossed in a vibrant green sauce made from fresh, tender green peas? Not us, that’s for sure. This simple yet delectable dish is not only a culinary delight but also a nutritious treat, bursting with vitamins and minerals. With a few pantry staples and a touch of inspiration, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. So, grab your wooden spoon and let’s dive into the world of green peas and pasta.
Green peas and pasta make a fantastic duo, combining the sweetness of the peas with the comforting texture of the pasta. You can use any type of pasta you like, be it spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. The key to this dish lies in the vibrant green sauce, which is made by blending fresh green peas with a medley of herbs and aromatics. This sauce not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also infuses the pasta with a burst of flavor.
Ingredients and Equipment
For the green sauce:
- 2 cups fresh green peas
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 1/4 cup fresh mint
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta:
- 1 pound of your preferred pasta
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment:
- Blender
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
How To Make
Step 1: Prepare the green sauce
Rinse the green peas, basil, and mint. In a blender, combine the peas, basil, mint, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. You may need to add a little water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 2: Cook the pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 3: Combine the green sauce and pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, green sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Add some of the reserved pasta cooking water if needed to create a creamy, saucy consistency.
Tips and Possible Variations
To enhance the flavor of your green peas and pasta, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
For a vegetarian version, replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
To turn this dish into a meal, add some grilled chicken, tofu, or roasted vegetables to the pasta.
This dish can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for packed lunches or picnics.
The green peas and pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little bit of water or milk to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
Experiment with different types of herbs and spices to create your unique green peas and pasta sauce. Some great options include oregano, rosemary, thyme, and saffron.
