Pasta Piselli
Pasta Piselli is a simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines pasta with a deliciously aromatic sauce made from peas, garlic, and tomatoes. The peas are sautéed with garlic and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, creating a savory base.
San Marzano tomatoes add a rich, sweet depth of flavor that perfectly complements the peas. Toss it all together with your favorite pasta and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, Pasta Piselli is a wonderful dish for any night of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love Pasta Piselli because it’s a deliciously simple dish that combines fresh, bright flavors with comforting warmth.
The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with the savory garlic and the richness of San Marzano tomatoes, creating a balanced and satisfying sauce.
With just a few pantry staples and minimal preparation, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes.
The kick from the crushed red pepper adds just the right amount of heat, while the Parmesan cheese brings everything together with a creamy, salty finish.
It’s an easy, wholesome dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or whenever you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor!
Key Ingredients:
Garlic: Sautéed in olive oil to create a fragrant base and add depth of flavor to the dish.
Frozen peas: Sweet and tender, they provide a pop of freshness and texture in the sauce.
San Marzano tomatoes: Known for their rich, sweet flavor, these tomatoes form the heart of the sauce and balance the savory elements of the dish.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and peas, bringing a smooth, fruity richness to the sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle heat and a little spice to the dish, balancing the sweetness of the peas and tomatoes.
Oregano: A classic herb that enhances the dish with its earthy, aromatic flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a creamy, salty finish that ties the entire dish together.
How to make Pasta Piselli
Sauté 3 garlic cloves in olive oil,
Add frozen peas, salt, oregano,and crushed red pepper flakes.
Cook on high heat covered stirring often for about 5 minutes or until peas are soft ….
Add San Marzano tomatoes and a little more salt,
Cover and stir often for another 20 minutes…
Add to pasta..
Top with Parmesan cheese!
Notes:
Adjusting the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For more heat, feel free to add extra flakes to taste or substitute with a bit of chopped fresh chili.
Choosing the Right Pasta: While this recipe can work with any pasta, it’s best to use something that will hold the sauce well, like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. These shapes help the sauce cling to the pasta for a more satisfying bite.
San Marzano Tomatoes: If you can’t find San Marzano tomatoes, any high-quality canned tomatoes will work. However, San Marzano tomatoes are known for their sweetness and low acidity, making them perfect for this dish.
Extra Veggies: You can easily add extra vegetables to this dish. Try adding some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and flavor.
Make it Vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative.
Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: While frozen peas are used for convenience, fresh peas (if available) can be used for an even sweeter, more vibrant flavor.
Pasta Cooking Tip: Be sure to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Adding a bit of this starchy water to the sauce can help thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made in advance, and the flavors will deepen as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You may need to add a little extra olive oil or water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 250 | Fat: 10grams | Carbohydrates: 30 grams | Protein: 8 grams | Fiber: 5 grams | Sodium: 500 milligrams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh peas for frozen peas if they are in season.
Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly as fresh peas may require slightly less time to cook.
Is it necessary to use San Marzano tomatoes?
While San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their sweet flavor and low acidity, you can use other varieties of canned tomatoes if San Marzano tomatoes are not available.
Can I omit the crushed red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?
Yes, you can omit the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.
Is Parmesan cheese the only cheese option for topping?
Parmesan cheese pairs well with Pasta Piselli, but you can also use other grated or shredded cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Pasta Piselli is versatile, and you can customize it by adding other vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional content.
Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure all vegetables are cooked to your liking.
What can I substitute for San Marzano tomatoes?
If San Marzano tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes as alternatives.
Just ensure they are of good quality for the best flavor.
Can I use other herbs instead of oregano?
Absolutely! While oregano adds a classic Italian flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to suit your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to cover the peas while cooking?
Covering the peas helps to retain moisture and cook them evenly.
However, if you prefer a drier texture, you can cook them uncovered, but be sure to stir them more frequently.
Can I add protein such as chicken or shrimp to this dish?
Yes, adding protein like chicken or shrimp can make this dish more satisfying and nutritious.
Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the dish along with the peas and tomatoes.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning while sautéing?
To prevent garlic from burning, ensure the heat is not too high and stir it constantly while sautéing.
You can also add a splash of water or broth if the garlic starts to brown too quickly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can make Pasta Piselli vegetarian or vegan-friendly by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
Check the label of your pasta to ensure it doesn’t contain eggs if you’re making it vegan.
Is it necessary to use olive oil, or can I use another type of oil?
While olive oil adds a rich flavor to the dish, you can use other cooking oils such as vegetable oil or avocado oil if preferred.
Can I store leftovers of Pasta Piselli?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What pasta shapes work best for Pasta Piselli?
Pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini are ideal for Pasta Piselli as they can hold the peas and sauce well.
However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand.