Description
Pasta e Piselli is a cozy and comforting Italian classic that combines tender pasta and sweet green peas in a creamy, starchy broth. A one-pot, budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or nostalgic comfort food moments.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cups frozen green peas
6 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
1 ½ cups small pasta (ditalini, tubetti, or elbows)
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional: 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes
Optional: Splash of cream or extra cheese
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- If using, add minced garlic and crushed red pepper and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in the peas and cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Add the water or broth to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the pasta directly to the boiling liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in grated cheese if using, until melted and combined. For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or more cheese, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use fresh peas instead of frozen if preferred—cook for 3–5 minutes until tender.
Substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth for extra flavor (if not vegetarian).
To make vegan, use olive oil, vegetable broth, and skip cheese or use a plant-based version.
To make gluten-free, use small gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free.
Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
Freezing is possible but may affect pasta texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
