Mom'S Peas And Macaroni
A comforting pasta dish with peas, tomato sauce, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for family dinners. Savory, cheesy, and easy to prepare, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion and fry in olive oil until lightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce, water, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the onion and stir.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Bring water to a boil in a 2-quart saucepan and cook the macaroni until tender.
- Drain and rinse the cooked macaroni, then add it to the sauce mixture.
- Cook the frozen peas until tender and drain.
- Add the cooked peas to the macaroni and sauce mixture.
- Serve in a large bowl and sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based alternative if you're following vegetarian recipes. If you're short on time, use canned peas instead of frozen. Other pasta shapes like shells or penne work well too. Adjust seasoning to taste, and consider adding garlic for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Peas and Macaroni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheryl'S Artichoke Dip as an appetizer. For a heartier option, add cooked chicken or sausage to the mix. A light sprinkling of fresh herbs before serving can enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Peas And Macaroni contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used in place of frozen ones. Simply cook them until tender before adding to the dish. Fresh peas will provide a brighter flavor and vibrant color, making the dish even more appealing.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. There are many excellent gluten-free options available that will work well in this recipe, ensuring everyone can enjoy it without compromising taste.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas. You can also mix in some cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist. These additions can turn this dish into a more filling meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).