Pasta E Piselli is a cozy dish made with pasta and sweet peas. It’s perfect for a warm meal that feels like a hug from your grandma!
This easy recipe is great for any day of the week. I love how the peas add a pop of color and sweetness, turning a simple pasta night into something special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using small pasta like ditalini or elbows since they blend well with the peas. If you need a substitute, try orzo or mini shells. Both hold up nicely in soups!
Green Peas: Fresh peas are fantastic, but frozen peas work just as well and save time. They’re picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, keeping their sweetness. You can even swap with shelled edamame or butter beans for a twist!
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor and sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, shallots can be a quick alternative, or you could skip the onion entirely and use onion powder instead—though the fresh flavor differs!
Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth gives a nice depth of flavor, but chicken broth can be used instead if you don’t mind a non-vegetarian option. For a low-sodium version, go with homemade broth or low-sodium store options.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Pasta?
Getting the pasta just right is key to a great dish. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Bring your broth to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This ensures it cooks evenly.
- Check the package instructions for cooking time and reduce it by a minute for al dente. The pasta will continue cooking in the soup.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook! Taste the pasta a minute before the end time to see if it’s done to your liking.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta every time!
How to Make Pasta e Piselli?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 250g small pasta (such as ditalini or elbows)
- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Pasta e Piselli dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll spend a little time chopping and sautéing before everything simmers together. It’s quick and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing the Onion:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor to the dish!
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about another minute, just until you can smell the lovely aroma. Make sure not to let it burn!
3. Mix in the Peas:
Next, stir in the green peas and cook for around 3 minutes. If you’re using frozen peas, they just need to warm through. This adds a pop of color and sweetness to your dish!
4. Bring on the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and bring the mixture to a boil. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. The broth will create a wonderful base for your pasta.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Once the broth is boiling, add your small pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the pasta package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Add Creaminess with Parmesan:
If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in towards the end of cooking. This will make the dish creamy and extra delicious. Just mix it well until it melts into the broth.
7. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Pasta e Piselli hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy a comforting meal that brings a little piece of Italy to your kitchen!
Enjoy your Pasta e Piselli, a comforting Italian dish that beautifully combines pasta and sweet peas!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, as they will warm up and cook through in a few minutes. This makes it a great option if you’re short on fresh ingredients!
What If I Don’t Have Vegetable Broth?
No problem! You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added flavor, or even use water if you’re in a pinch. If using water, consider adding a bit more salt or seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta e Piselli?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen up the pasta if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. You can also boost the creaminess by adding a bit of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy!
