If you’re looking for a quick and easy Italian pasta dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, then you should try Pasta e Piselli. This classic recipe is made with green peas (Piselli in Italian), pasta, onions, and olive oil. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, and it can be done in a flash.
One of the best things about Pasta e Piselli is that it’s a one-pot meal. You can cook the pasta and the peas in the same pot, which means less clean-up for you. And because it’s so simple, you can make it on a weeknight when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
There are many variations of Pasta e Piselli, but they all have one thing in common: they’re delicious! Whether you prefer your pasta with a creamy sauce or a light broth, there’s a recipe out there that will suit your tastes. So why not give it a try and see why this dish has been a favorite in Italy for generations?
Why You Will Love This Pasta e Piselli (Pasta and Pea)Recipe
Pasta e Piselli is a classic Italian pasta dish that is sure to win your heart. This easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting meal that is quick and easy to prepare. Here are some reasons why you will love this recipe:
- It’s a classic Italian dish: If you love pasta, you will love Pasta e Piselli. This dish is a classic Italian recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
- It’s easy to make: This recipe is very easy to make. You only need a handful of ingredients, and you can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
- It’s a one-pot wonder: Pasta e Piselli is a one-pot wonder. You cook the pasta and peas in the same pot, which means less cleanup for you. It’s perfect for those nights when you don’t want to spend a lot of time washing dishes.
- It’s a comfort food: This recipe is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy, cheesy, savory sauce is sure to warm you up on a cold night. It’s like a cross between a pasta dish and a soup, which makes it perfect for those nights when you want something cozy and comforting.
- It’s versatile: You can make this recipe with fresh or frozen peas, and you can use any kind of short pasta you like. You can also add other ingredients like pancetta, onion, and garlic to give it more flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking.
In conclusion, if you love pasta and classic Italian dishes, you will love Pasta e Piselli. It’s easy to make, comforting, and versatile. Give it a try and see why it’s been a favorite in Italian households for generations.
How to Make Pasta e Piselli Recipe
Ingredients
To make pasta e piselli, you will need the following ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Frozen peas
- Small pasta
- Fresh parsley
- Pecorino Romano cheese
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Instruments
To prepare this dish, you will need:
- A large pot
- A skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
Step By Step Instruction
Making Pasta e Piselli is a simple and easy process that can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how to make this delicious Italian dish.
- Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente, or just tender. Be sure to reserve a few ladles of pasta water for later use.
- Add the peas: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peas and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through. If using frozen peas, be sure to defrost them before adding them to the skillet.
- Combine the pasta and peas: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the peas. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the pea sauce.
- Use pasta water: If the sauce seems too thick, add a few ladles of the reserved pasta water to the skillet to thin it out.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the pasta and peas and sprinkle with grated cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
By following these simple steps, you can make this delicious Pasta e Piselli recipe in no time. So why not give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen?
To make the perfect pasta e piselli, follow these Recipe Tips:
- Use frozen sweet peas or baby peas as they work really well in this recipe.
- Be sure to defrost the peas before using.
- Traditionally ditalini is used to make this pasta with peas, but other small pasta shapes, such as small shells, farfalle, pennette, elbow macaroni, and orzo, can also be used for Pasta e Piselli.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Use a large pot to cook the pasta to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
Ingredient Substitute
Pasta e Piselli is a delicious Italian dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, there are some substitutes you can use to make this dish just as tasty.
Peas
When it comes to peas, frozen sweet peas or baby peas work really well in this recipe and are what most people use. Of course, fresh peas can be used, but they are difficult to find year-round. Be sure to defrost the peas before using them in the recipe.
Italian Bacon
The traditional recipe calls for smoked pancetta (Italian bacon), but if you don’t have it, you can use smoked bacon instead. Cut it into small pieces before cooking. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can also use mushrooms or tofu to add some flavor to the dish.
Pasta
Traditionally, ditalini is used to make this pasta with peas, but other small pasta shapes, such as small shells, farfalle, pennette, elbow macaroni, and orzo, can also be used for Pasta e Piselli. Just make sure to use dried pasta instead of fresh, homemade pasta. Fresh pasta cooks too quickly for the one-pot, no-draining method we’re using here.
In conclusion, with these ingredient substitutes, you can still enjoy a delicious Pasta e Piselli even if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand. Just remember to defrost the peas, cut the bacon into small pieces, and use dried pasta instead of fresh.
What to Serve With Pasta e Piselli
Pasta e Piselli is a traditional Italian pasta dish that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. This dish is a perfect meal for a family dinner or a special occasion. Here are some ideas on what to serve with this recipe.
1. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic Italian side dish that pairs well with Pasta e Piselli. It is easy to make and adds an extra layer of flavor to the meal. You can make garlic bread by slicing a baguette, spreading garlic butter on each slice, and toasting it in the oven until golden brown.
2. Salad
A fresh and light salad is a great way to balance out the rich flavors of the pasta dish. You can make a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Alternatively, you can make a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing.
3. Wine
A glass of wine is a perfect complement to Pasta e Piselli. A light red wine such as Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs well with the dish. Alternatively, a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc also goes well with the flavors of the pasta.
In conclusion, Pasta e Piselli is a traditional Italian dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Garlic bread, salad, and wine are just a few examples of what you can serve with this recipe. Try experimenting with different sides to find the perfect combination for your taste.
What Is a Substitute for Pasta e Piselli Recipe
If you don’t have all the ingredients for Pasta e Piselli, you can use some substitutes to make a similar dish. Here are some options you can consider for a comforting Italian pasta and peas meal:
- Pasta: You can use any kind of short pasta in this dish. If you don’t have ditalini, you can use other small pasta shapes, such as small shells, farfalle, pennette, elbow macaroni, orzo, or any other short pasta you have on hand. You can even use leftover pasta from a previous meal.
- Green Peas: If you don’t have fresh green peas, you can use frozen green peas instead. They are a great substitute and are readily available in most grocery stores.
- Onion: You can use white onion, yellow onion, shallots, or spring onions for this recipe. If you don’t have any of these, you can use garlic instead. Just make sure to adjust the amount accordingly.
- Parsley: If you don’t have parsley, you can use other herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. You can even use dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones.
- Cheese: The recipe calls for Parmesan and Romano cheeses, but you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino or Asiago. If you don’t have any hard cheese, you can use grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
Overall, Pasta e Piselli is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste and the ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little creativity, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
If you are looking for a nutritious and delicious pasta dish, Pasta e Piselli (Pasta with Peas) is a great option. Here are some nutrition facts about this pasta e piselli recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 kcal per serving
- Protein: Roughly 10-14 grams, great for muscle repair
- Fat: Around 5-10 grams, with a balance of mono and polyunsaturated fats
- Saturated Fat: Generally low, about 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: About 50-60 grams, providing energy
- Fiber: Close to 5 grams, supporting digestive health
- Sugar: Usually under 5 grams
- Sodium: Can vary, often around 300-400 mg
Overall, Pasta e Piselli is a nutritious and delicious pasta dish that is perfect for a healthy and balanced diet. It is low in fat, high in protein and fiber, and contains important vitamins and minerals. So, if you are looking for a healthy and tasty pasta dish, give this pasta and peas recipe a try!
Pasta e Piselli (Pasta and Pea)
Equipment
- A large pot
- A skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Frozen peas
- Small pasta
- Fresh parsley
- Pecorino Romano cheese
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Making Pasta e Piselli is a simple and easy process that can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how to make this delicious Italian dish.
- Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente, or just tender. Be sure to reserve a few ladles of pasta water for later use.
- Add the peas: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peas and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through. If using frozen peas, be sure to defrost them before adding them to the skillet.
- Combine the pasta and peas: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the peas. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the pea sauce.
- Use pasta water: If the sauce seems too thick, add a few ladles of the reserved pasta water to the skillet to thin it out.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the pasta and peas and sprinkle with grated cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 kcal per serving
- Protein: Roughly 10-14 grams, great for muscle repair
- Fat: Around 5-10 grams, with a balance of mono and polyunsaturated fats Saturated Fat: Generally low, about 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: About 50-60 grams, providing energy
- Fiber: Close to 5 grams, supporting digestive health
- Sugar: Usually under 5 grams
- Sodium: Can vary, often around 300-400 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the traditional ingredients in Pasta e Piselli?
Pasta e Piselli is a traditional Italian dish that typically includes pasta, peas, garlic, onions, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Some variations of the dish may include additional ingredients such as pancetta, prosciutto, or tomatoes. However, the basic ingredients remain the same.
How do you make a creamy version of Pasta e Piselli?
To make a creamy version of Pasta e Piselli, you can add heavy cream or a mixture of cream and milk to the dish. After cooking the pasta and peas, add the cream mixture to the pot and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the dish is heated through.
Can you add bacon to Pasta e Piselli, and if so, how?
Yes, you can add bacon to Pasta e Piselli. Simply cook the bacon in a separate pan until crispy, then crumble it into the dish before serving. This will add a smoky flavor to the dish and give it a bit of texture.
What is the history behind the inclusion of peas in Italian pasta dishes?
Peas have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. They were originally introduced to Italy by the Spanish in the 16th century and quickly became a popular ingredient in many dishes. Peas are often used in pasta dishes as a way to add a bit of sweetness and texture to the dish.
How can tomatoes be incorporated into Pasta e Piselli?
Tomatoes can be incorporated into Pasta e Piselli by adding diced tomatoes to the dish after the onions and garlic have been sautéed. Cook the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes until they have softened, then add the peas and pasta to the pot. This will give the dish a bit of acidity and a bright, fresh flavor.
Is there a soup variation of Pasta e Piselli, and what does the recipe entail?
Yes, there is a soup variation of Pasta e Piselli. To make the soup, simply add chicken or vegetable broth to the dish and cook until the pasta and peas are tender. This will create a hearty and warming soup that is perfect for cold winter nights. You can also add additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach to the soup to make it even more nutritious.
