Pasta With Peas
A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring peas, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large saucepan.
- Add chopped onion and cook slowly until lightly browned.
- Add sieved tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer about 10 minutes.
- Add peas along with another 1 1/2 cans of water; simmer about 5 minutes.
- Toss the mixture with cooked pasta.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce. If you don't have ditalini pasta, any small pasta shape like elbows or shells can work. Fresh or frozen peas can also be substituted for canned if you prefer a brighter flavor. Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Consider serving with garlic bread or a slice of crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
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 warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Peas contains roughly 161 calories, with 10g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, frozen peas can be used in this recipe. Simply add them during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce so they can heat through without becoming mushy. This will give a fresher taste and vibrant color to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that any cheese you use, like Parmesan or Romano, is made without animal rennet. You can also enhance the flavor by adding more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to the sauce.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Grated Parmesan cheese is traditional for this dish, but you can also use Romano for a sharper flavor. If you want a creamier finish, consider stirring in some ricotta cheese before serving. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
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).