Pasta with Peas or Pasta e Piselli, is a quick and easy Italian pasta recipe, that serves as either a main dish or a tasty side. The combination of tender pasta, sweet peas, and smoky bacon nestled in a creamy, cheesy white sauce is a comfort food favorite that's always delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Yummy and easy pasta dishes to make for dinner
There is no better comfort food than pasta! And there are so many delicious and easy meals you can make with it, easily customizing it with different sauces and ingredients for something different every night of the week. So next time you're short on time, whip up a pasta recipe for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
My go-to easy pasta recipes for busy weeknights range from this 30-minute Mexican Taco Pasta, to an Italian flavored Pizza Pasta Casserole, to a healthier, tired and true recipe for Chicken Orzo Skillet. I'm telling you, the possibilities are endless!
Why you'll love this recipe
Pasta with peas is the definition of comfort food with a twist!
It's ridiculously easy to make. One pot, easy steps, and dinner is ready in just 30 minutes!
It's made with wholesome, simple ingredients. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen.
It's versatile. Add seafood or chicken for a heartier meal, swap some veggies, make it creamier, or keep it plain and traditional - the choice is yours.
It's light but satisfying. The creamy sauce comes from parmesan, not heavy cream, so it feels indulgent without being over the top.
Ingredients
This recipe is all about simplicity. You'll find the full recipe for this creamy pasta in the recipe card below.
Frozen peas: Sweet and tender, green peas are the star of the show.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory kick.
Onion: Sautéed until soft, it brings a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Because everything's better with a little garlic!
Extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dish, adding a rich, fruity flavor.
Water or broth: Helps cook the pasta and creates a light sauce. For extra flavor opt for chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Salt, black pepper, and oregano: Simple seasonings that pack a punch.
Short pasta: Ditalini, shells, bowtie pasta, or really any small pasta are perfect for soaking up all the flavors.
Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese adds creamy, salty goodness. Pecorino Romano can also be used.
Basil: Using fresh herbs brings a pop of freshness to every bite.
Garnishes: Extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if you're feeling spicy.
How to make pasta and peas with bacon
This one-pot wonder is as easy as it gets! Here's what to do:
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot. Add diced onion and chopped bacon.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes or until bacon is crisp. In the last minute, add garlic.
- Add frozen peas and water or broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the pasta and seasonings. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan, or until pasta is al dente.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
- All finished and ready to dive in!
How to serve this Italian pasta dish with peas
Ladle into pasta bowls and garnish with a little olive oil, some Parmesan cheese, and a few sprigs of fresh basil.
For a light, refreshing complement, serve a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette. A loaf of crusty bread or some warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce. If you're feeling indulgent, add a plate of bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
Looking for more protein? Grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a plate of bacon-wrapped asparagus pairs beautifully with the subtle flavors of this pasta.
And don't forget a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for the ultimate Italian-inspired dinner!
Recipe tips for success
Keep an eye on the liquid level while cooking the pasta. It should be just enough to cook it without making it soupy.
Stir often to prevent sticking, especially towards the end.
Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Recipe variations to make it your own
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are some ideas:
Swap the bacon: Use prosciutto, pancetta, or ham for a different twist on this simple pasta dish.
Add veggies: Asparagus, mushrooms, carrots, corn, leeks, broccoli, or zucchini are all delicious options.
Meat and seafood: Try tuna, shrimp, salmon, or chicken to make it heartier.
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a luscious cream sauce.
How to store, freeze, and reheat leftovers
Got leftover pasta? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze it, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight.
To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce and warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
More Italian recipes to make for dinner
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- Creamy Chicken Lasagna
- Italian Stuffed Peppers
- Meatball Casserole
- Tortellini with Italian Sausage
Find lots of easy Italian dinner recipes right here on 2CM!
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Pasta with Peas
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped (about ½-3/4 cup)
- ⅓ cup bacon chopped (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic or 1-½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 12 ounces frozen peas
- 2 cups water, vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 9 ounces favorite short shaped pasta ditaloni, shells, fusilli, ziti
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan plus extra for serving
- 5-6 basil leaves chopped
- Garnish: olive oil, fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onions with bacon, if using, for 4-5 minutes or until onions have softened and bacon is crisp. Add garlic in the last minute.
- Add the peas to the pot with the onions along with 2 cups water or broth. Turn up the heat and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the pasta, salt, pepper, and oregano. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook the pasta until al dente, about 15-20 minutes depending on the type of pasta used. Stir several times when cooking so it doesn't stick to bottom. If the liquid gets below the level of the pasta add a bit more. You don't want to make it too soupy so go easy on adding additional water.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and chopped basil. Check the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into a bowl and garnish with additional Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and red pepper flakes, if you like. Serve immediately.
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