Pea Pesto Pasta (Recipe)

This article provides a delicious recipe for Pea Pesto Pasta. Made with a homemade pesto sauce and tossed with pasta, this vegetarian dish is quick and easy to make.

With the combination of peas, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, this pasta is packed with flavor and can be enjoyed as a hearty weeknight dinner.

Key Takeaways:

• Pea Pesto Pasta is a flavorful and quick vegetarian pasta dish.
• The homemade pesto sauce adds freshness and vibrant flavors to the dish.
• It is easy to customize the dish with different pasta shapes and additional toppings.
• Pair the Pea Pesto Pasta with colorful roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
• This recipe yields leftovers that can be enjoyed for up to 4 days.

A Simple and Quick Pasta Dish

Looking for a quick and easy pasta dinner for those busy weeknights? Look no further than this recipe for Pasta with Peas and Pesto.

With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

This recipe combines the convenience of store-bought pesto with the freshness of frozen peas, resulting in a flavorful and vibrant dish.

The addition of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese adds depth and richness to the pasta, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy pasta dinner:

• 8 ounces of pasta (any shape will do)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup store-bought pesto
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cooked pasta and peas to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and oil.
4. Stir in the pesto, adding some of the reserved pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy!

For a visual guide on how to make Pasta with Peas and Pesto, check out the image below:

Now you have a delicious and quick weeknight dinner idea in your recipe repertoire. Give this Pasta with Peas and Pesto a try and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Happy cooking!

Tips and Variations for Pea Pesto Pasta

When making Pea Pesto Pasta, there are several tips and variations you can explore to customize this delicious vegetarian pasta dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your pasta experience:

1. Pasta Shapes

Don’t be limited to traditional pasta shapes. Experiment with different varieties to add visual interest and texture to your dish. Try reginetti, fusilli, farfalle, shells, or orecchiette. For healthier options, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles.

2. Creamy Additions

Add a dollop of ricotta cheese to your pasta for an extra creamy and luxurious texture. The ricotta complements the flavors of the pesto and peas, adding a delightful richness to each bite.

3. Protein Boost

If you’re looking to enhance the protein content of your meal, top your Pea Pesto Pasta with fried eggs. The combination of the creamy yolks and the vibrant flavors of the pasta creates a satisfying and nutritious option.

4. Serving Size

The recipe yields a generous amount of Pea Pesto Pasta, making it perfect for sharing with friends and loved ones. If you prefer a smaller portion, simply halve the ingredients to suit your needs.

5. Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the pasta even more delicious the next day.

With these tips and variations, you can personalize your Pea Pesto Pasta to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the versatility of this flavorful and satisfying vegetarian pasta dish.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Pea Pesto Pasta can be served with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments to enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Colorful Roasted Vegetables

Add a vibrant touch to your pasta dish by serving it alongside a medley of colorful roasted vegetables.

Roasting vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.

Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.

2. Refreshing Tomato Salad

A refreshing tomato salad is a perfect accompaniment to the pea pesto pasta. Combine ripe tomatoes, sliced red onion, fresh basil leaves, and crumbled feta cheese in a bowl.

Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine, and let the flavors meld together before serving.

3. Simple Arugula Salad

For a lighter side dish, create a simple arugula salad to complement the pasta. Toss fresh arugula leaves with lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Top it off with shaved Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.

4. Dressing Options

• Dress up the pea pesto pasta with a drizzle of zesty Italian dressing for an extra burst of tangy flavor.
• Alternatively, opt for a classic vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss the pasta in the vinaigrette just before serving.

5. Ricotta Cheese

To make the pasta even more indulgent and creamy, add a few dollops of ricotta cheese to individual serving bowls. The creamy ricotta complements the flavors of the pea pesto and adds a luxurious element to the dish.

6. Topping with Fried Eggs

For a protein boost and a twist on the traditional pasta dish, consider topping the pea pesto pasta with a fried egg. The rich, runny yolk adds a luscious texture and marries well with the flavors of the pesto and pasta.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving Pea Pesto Pasta. Be creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to find your favorite combinations.

Whether you’re looking for a casual weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a flavorful vegetarian pasta dish, these side dishes and accompaniments will elevate your meal.