I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the smell of onions and olive oil. It was like a warm welcome to her famous pasta e piselli. This dish has been loved by my family for years, and I’m happy to share it with you.
Pasta and peas, or “pasta e piselli” in Italy, is a comforting side dish. It turns simple ingredients into a tasty, quick meal. It’s a dish that brings home to you, no matter where you are.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Italian Pasta e Piselli
Pasta e Piselli, or pasta with peas, is a beloved Italian dish from the Campania region, especially Naples. It’s a mix between a soup and dry pasta, offering a special texture and taste.
Origins and Cultural Significance
This dish has a long history in Italian cooking, dating back centuries. It shows the creativity of Italian cooks, who used simple, seasonal ingredients for meals. The mix of pasta, peas, and spring onions highlights Italy’s love for fresh, local food.
Why This Dish Became a Family Favorite
Pasta e Piselli is loved for its ease, comfort, and taste. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights. Its soft texture and sweet peas win over both kids and adults, making it a favorite in Italian homes.
Quick Overview of Preparation Time and Difficulty
This easy pasta recipe takes just 15 minutes to make. It’s simple to prepare, with little chopping and easy cooking. Even beginners can make a tasty Pasta e Piselli with confidence.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Pasta and Peas Recipe
Making a tasty Italian cuisine pasta and peas dish is all about the ingredients. At its core, you need frozen or fresh green peas for their sweet and tender taste. Short-cut pasta shapes like ditalini or conchigliette are ideal, letting the flavors blend well.
For a rich flavor, use high-quality Parmigiano or Grana Padano cheese. Add a diced onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper for the base. For more taste, try adding crispy pancetta or fresh herbs like marjoram or oregano.
The sauce is made with chicken or vegetable broth. This liquid makes the sauce creamy and coats the pasta and peas perfectly. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious pasta e piselli dish that feels like Italy.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen or fresh green peas | 270g |
| Ditalini or conchigliette pasta | 250g |
| Parmigiano or Grana Padano cheese | 50g |
| Onion | 1 leek or 3 green onions |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Pancetta (optional) | 200g |
| Fresh marjoram or oregano (optional) | As desired |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 750ml |
“Crafting a delicious and authentic Italian cuisine pasta and peas dish requires a few key ingredients.”
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make this tasty pasta recipe and budget-friendly meal, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. We’ll look at the must-have cookware, optional tools for easier prep, and key measuring tools.
Required Cookware
- A large, thick-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (at least 5.5 quarts) for evenly cooking the pasta
- A wooden spoon for gently stirring the pasta and pea sauce
- A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients
- A medium or large fine-mesh strainer for draining the cooked pasta
- Heat-safe kitchen tongs for handling the kale leaves
Optional Equipment for Easier Preparation
While not essential, these tools can make your pasta-making experience better:
- A stand blender for creating a smooth, creamy pea sauce
- A cheese grater for freshly grating Parmigiano-Reggiano
- A ladle for neatly serving the pasta and pea dish
Measuring Tools
Accurate measurement is key to a perfect easy pasta recipe and budget-friendly meal. Make sure to have these measuring tools:
- Measuring cups for portioning out the pasta, peas, and other ingredients
- Measuring spoons for precisely adding seasonings and herbs
With these essential kitchen tools and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic Italian-style pasta and pea dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Preparing the Base: Aromatics and Seasonings
Start by sautéing finely diced onion in olive oil for about 5 minutes. It should turn translucent and smell great. If you’re using pancetta or bacon, add it to the pan. This will make the dish taste even better.
After the onions are soft, add salt, black pepper, and fresh marjoram or oregano. These Italian seasonings create a strong flavor base for your pasta and peas. For a vegetarian dish, skip the pancetta. Instead, add a Parmigiano-Reggiano rind to the broth for extra flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1-2 tbsp |
| Onion, finely diced | 1 medium |
| Pancetta or bacon (optional) | 2-3 oz, diced |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Fresh marjoram or oregano | 1-2 tsp, chopped |
| Parmigiano-Reggiano rind (optional) | 1 small piece |
This aromatic base is key to a delicious vegetarian pasta dish. It brings the heart of Italian cuisine to your plate. By focusing on this step, your pasta and peas will blend perfectly.
Pasta and peas recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this pasta and peas recipe is easy, making it great for a quick dinner idea on busy nights. Follow these simple steps to make a tasty Italian dish fast.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 1 pound of pasta and cook until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, keeping about 1 cup of the cooking water.
Preparing the Pea Sauce
In another skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 cups of frozen petite peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they’re tender. Use the back of a wooden spoon to crush the peas slightly, making the sauce creamy.
Combining Components
Put the cooked pasta into the pea sauce and mix well. If it’s too dry, add some of the pasta water to make it smooth. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup of heavy cream (if using) until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Enjoy this pasta and peas recipe hot, topped with more Parmesan cheese if you like. It’s a quick and tasty Italian dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 278 kcal |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 245 mg |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 13 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Protein | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 101 mg |
Tips for Perfect Texture and Consistency
Getting the right texture and consistency is crucial for a tasty easy pasta recipe with vegetable pasta. Here are some tips to help your dish come out perfectly:
- Use the right liquid-to-pasta ratio. The recipe calls for 4 cups of water, which should be adjusted as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Simmer the dish gently and stir frequently to prevent sticking or overcooking. Add liquid gradually as the pasta absorbs it.
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, with a slight bite. Overcooking can result in a mushy, unappetizing texture.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, but not become too dense. The finished dish should be brothy but not soupy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Don’t skip the Parmigiano cheese, as it adds essential flavor and texture to the dish.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create an easy pasta recipe with vegetable pasta that’s perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Pasta and peas recipe
“The key to a great pasta dish is finding the right balance between the pasta, the sauce, and the other ingredients. It’s all about the texture and consistency.”
Variations and Customization Options
The classic pasta and peas dish is a versatile Italian staple. It can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences and taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or want to add some extra protein, there are plenty of ways to customize this pasta dish to make it your own.
Vegetarian Adaptations
For a meatless version of this pasta dish, simply omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add in extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to make it more filling and flavorful. To maintain the creamy texture, use a plant-based milk or cream alternative.
Adding Proteins
If you’re looking to make this pasta dish more substantial, consider adding proteins like diced ham, crumbled bacon, or sautéed chicken or shrimp. These additions can provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the peas and the creaminess of the sauce.
Regional Italian Variations
Across different regions of Italy, you’ll find variations on the classic pasta e piselli recipe. Some may include a dollop of tomato purée for a touch of acidity, while others may use prosciutto instead of pancetta. In certain parts of the country, diced potato is added for extra heartiness. Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as rigatoni or penne, to find your preferred texture.
No matter which path you choose, the beauty of this pasta dish lies in its ability to be customized to your liking. Embrace the versatility of this Italian classic and make it your own.
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Information
Pasta and peas is more than just a tasty Italian dish. It’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of pasta and peas makes for a meal that’s good for you.
Peas are low in fat but high in protein and fiber. They’re filling and full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These help keep you healthy and feeling great.
The pasta in this dish gives you energy that lasts. It’s also a good source of fiber, which is good for your digestion.
Together, pasta and peas make a meal that’s full of nutrients. This healthy meal option is great for many diets. It works for vegetarians and those who need gluten-free options.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g | 17% |
| Protein | 15 g | 30% |
| Fiber | 8 g | 29% |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg | 22% |
| Iron | 3 mg | 17% |
This vegetable pasta dish is easy to make for different diets. It’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
Pasta and peas recipe
“Pasta and peas is a delightful way to incorporate more plant-based nutrients into your diet. This dish is both satisfying and good for you.”
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enhance your Italian cuisine experience with Pasta e Piselli (Pasta and Peas). This classic pasta dish can be a main course or a first course. It’s perfect for leading into a bigger entree.
For a full meal, add a simple side salad. Try a fennel and lemon salad or a Caprese salad. These salads highlight Italian flavors. Serve with Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Choosing a wine? Opt for a light white wine like Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige, Italy. Its bright acidity and fruitiness match the pasta and peas, making for a great meal.
Got leftovers? Pasta e Piselli keeps well in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat it gently. Adding broth or milk can make it creamy again.
Pasta e Piselli is a true delight in Italian cuisine. It’s a simple yet delicious pasta dish that’s sure to please.
Conclusion
Pasta e Piselli is a timeless Italian classic. It’s a delightful mix of flavors, from sweet peas to savory Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a side dish.
This pasta and peas recipe is a must-try for Italian food lovers. You can add different veggies, proteins, or try regional twists. Enjoy the comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Buon appetito!