Spring Pea Pasta Delight

Known as 'Pasta e Piselli' in Italy and 'Ζυμαρικά με φρέσκα μπιζέλια' in Greece, this dish is a traditional comfort food often prepared in spring when fresh peas are in season. The combination of tender pasta with sweet peas, aromatic fresh onions, and rich Parmesan creates a simple yet satisfying meal that celebrates the natural flavors of the ingredients. This dish is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and has cultural significance as a humble yet nourishing meal passed down through generations. The slow cooking of onions in olive oil allows them to develop a mellow sweetness that enhances the taste of the peas, making this recipe a delightful experience with each bite.

Time to complete

Prep

20min

Cook

30min

Wait

0 minutes

Total

50min

Ingredients (Makes 4 servings)
  • 400 g (14 oz) pasta
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh spring onions
  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) fresh peas or 240 g (8.5 oz) frozen peas
  • 30 g (2 tbsp) olive oil
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 30 g (1 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 160
  • Fat: 3.5
  • Protein: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 27
  • Fiber: 27
Directions

Preparing the Peas and Onions

  • 1. Trim the ends of fresh peas, remove any strings, and extract the seeds. Finely chop the spring onions.

Cooking the Onions

  • 2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté with a ladle of boiling water from the pasta pot. Cook for about 15 minutes until softened, adding more water if necessary.

Cooking the Peas

  • 3. Once onions are softened, season with salt and pepper, add peas, and another ladle of boiling water. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Boiling and Finishing the Pasta

  • 4. Cook pasta for only 5 minutes in salted boiling water before transferring to the pan with peas. Gradually add cooking water while stirring, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Final Touch and Serving

  • 5. Stir in grated Parmesan, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Try roasting the peas with garlic for a different texture.

Enhancing Flavor

  • A pinch of nutmeg and fresh thyme leaves can elevate the aroma and depth of flavor.

Healthier Alternative

  • Substitute whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

Seasonal Twist

  • Add asparagus or zucchini in spring for more freshness.

Storage Tips

  • Leftover pasta with peas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.