Creamy Pasta With Peas (Simple & Comforting Weeknight Dinner)
I’ve been making Pasta With Peas for years, especially on days when I want something comforting but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those simple dishes that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something truly satisfying.
I love how the sweetness of the peas balances the savory pasta, and how easily the recipe adapts to what I already have on hand. Sometimes I keep it light with olive oil and garlic, other times I make it a bit richer with butter or cheese.
This is the kind of meal I turn to after a long day, when I want dinner on the table fast but still homemade. Pasta With Peas always feels cozy, familiar, and surprisingly flavorful for such a humble recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes with very simple steps.
- Comforting Flavor: The tender pasta and sweet peas create a warm, satisfying bite every time.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything comes from basic pantry and freezer staples.
- Very Versatile: You can add cheese, herbs, or protein without changing the base recipe.
- Perfect for Any Day: Great for busy weeknights, light lunches, or easy family dinners.
Pasta With Peas
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to combine.
- Pour in a little reserved pasta water if the pasta seems dry.
- Remove from heat, add Parmesan if using, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add lemon zest, herbs, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- This recipe works well with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips
- Salt your pasta water well to build flavor from the start.
- Use frozen peas straight from the freezer; no need to thaw.
- Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Cook peas briefly so they stay bright and slightly sweet.
- Stir pasta often to prevent sticking.
- Add cheese off the heat to avoid clumping.
- Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper.
- Finish with fresh herbs for extra freshness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, just cook them a bit longer until tender.
What type of pasta works best?
Short shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells hold the peas well.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as written it’s completely vegetarian.
Can I make it creamy without cream?
Butter, pasta water, and cheese create a naturally creamy texture.
How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time before serving.
