Pesto Pasta with Peas

A vibrant and refreshing dish, pesto pasta with peas combines tender pasta coated in fragrant basil pesto with sweet green peas for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish for gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe balances rich, herby pesto with the natural sweetness of peas, creating a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and fresh. It can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days. Additionally, it is adaptable—you can use homemade or store-bought pesto, different pasta shapes, or add extra vegetables for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of choice (such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)

• Fresh or frozen peas

• Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

2. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the boiling pasta water.

3. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and peas.

4. Return the pasta and peas to the pot. Add the pesto and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss gently until evenly coated.

5. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.

6. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergen-friendly option.

• Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra vegetables.

• Replace peas with edamame or broad beans for a different texture and flavor.

• Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.

• Use spinach or arugula pesto for a twist on the classic basil version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it may dry out the pasta.

FAQs

How can I make homemade pesto for this recipe?

You can blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth, adjusting quantities to taste.

Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and require no thawing—just add them directly to the boiling pasta water.

Which pasta shape works best?

Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use a vegan pesto and omit or replace Parmesan with a plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the pesto vibrant green?

Avoid overheating the pesto. Toss it with the pasta off the heat to preserve its bright color.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can cook the pasta and peas ahead of time, but toss them with pesto just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What protein pairs well with pesto pasta with peas?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas complement the flavors nicely.

How can I make it creamier?

Stir in a few tablespoons of cream, ricotta, or mascarpone when tossing the pasta.

Can I freeze pesto pasta?

It’s best to freeze the pesto separately, then cook fresh pasta and peas when ready to serve.

How do I reduce the oiliness of store-bought pesto?

You can balance the texture by adding a splash of pasta water or blending in a handful of steamed peas.

Conclusion

Pesto pasta with peas is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared quickly while delivering a satisfying balance of freshness and richness. Whether served as a main course or a side, it is versatile, nutritious, and adaptable to different dietary needs. By keeping a jar of pesto and some peas on hand, you can create this delightful recipe anytime

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