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Craving a Comforting Bowl of Italian Goodness? Let’s Make Pasta e Piselli!
Ever wonder how to whip up a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple? Pasta e Piselli, or pasta and peas, is your answer! This delightful Italian classic is naturally creamy, naturally flavorful, and naturally easy to make, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this naturally delicious and naturally comforting dish.
Why You’ll Love It
- Naturally creamy texture without any heavy cream – the starch from the pasta naturally thickens the sauce.
- A naturally sweet and savory flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a naturally quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.
- Naturally versatile – easily adaptable to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
- Kid-friendly and naturally appealing to all ages – even picky eaters love it!
- Budget-friendly and uses naturally accessible ingredients, already in your pantry
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What truly sets this Pasta e Piselli recipe apart is its simplicity and focus on fresh, quality ingredients. We’re not masking flavors with heavy sauces or complicated techniques. Instead, we’re letting the naturally sweet peas and perfectly cooked pasta shine, enhanced only by a touch of savory pancetta or bacon (optional, but highly recommended!) and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The key is to cook the pasta directly in the broth, allowing it to naturally release its starch and create a luscious, creamy sauce without any cream at all. This method naturally intensifies the flavors and creates a harmonious dish that’s both comforting and refined. This recipe provides a naturally flexible base for a fantastic meal.
Ingredient List
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and add richness.
- 4 ounces pancetta or bacon, diced (optional): Adds a savory, smoky depth of flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and savory note.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the sauce and cooks the pasta.
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni): The star of the dish!
- 1 cup frozen peas: Add sweetness and a pop of color; use naturally sweet fresh peas when in season!
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, naturally enhancing the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Adds a salty, umami flavor and creamy texture. Parmesan cheese is essential for creating a naturally rich and satisfying flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal note.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If using pancetta or bacon, add it to the pot and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta/bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta to the boiling broth and cook according to package directions, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Stir to combine and cook until the peas are heated through and tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and the reserved pancetta or bacon (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Optional Toppings/Variations
Want to naturally spice up your Pasta e Piselli? Here are a few ideas:
- A drizzle of olive oil: Adds extra richness and flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat.
- A squeeze of lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors.
- Fresh mint: Adds a refreshing herbal note.
- Toasted breadcrumbs: For a crunchy texture.
Expert Tips
- Use a high-quality broth for the best flavor. Homemade is always great, but store-bought works too.
- Don’t overcook the pasta! It should be al dente, meaning “to the tooth,” with a slight bite.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth to thin it out.
- For a creamier texture, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining and add it back to the pot.
- Fresh peas are best when in season, but frozen peas work just as well and are a great option year-round. Be sure to use naturally sweet fresh peas in season.
- Naturally enhance the dish’s flavor by using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape you like. Ditalini, orzo, and elbow macaroni are all great options. For naturally gluten-free meals, opt for gluten free pasta.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pancetta or bacon and use vegetable broth. To make it vegan, use a plant-based Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, if fresh peas are in season, they’re a wonderful addition! You’ll need about 1 cup of shelled fresh peas. Add them to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking, just like you would with frozen peas.
- How long does Pasta e Piselli last in the fridge?
Pasta e Piselli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Can I freeze Pasta e Piselli?
While you can technically freeze Pasta e Piselli, the texture of the pasta may change slightly. It’s best enjoyed fresh. For naturally enhanced flavors, enjoy fresh!
- Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious additions. Add them to the pot along with the onions and garlic.
Variations and Customization Options
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your liking! Here are some ideas:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would all be great additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche at the end for extra creaminess.
- Add herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all complement the flavors of this dish.
- Naturally enhance the flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic. Let it simmer for a minute or two before adding the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Pasta e Piselli is a naturally comforting and satisfying dish on its own, but it’s also delicious served as a side dish. Here are a few ideas:
Enjoy it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty stew. Naturally enjoy its versatility and easy flavor pairings.
Ready to Enjoy Naturally Delicious Pasta e Piselli?
So, are you ready to enjoy a bowl of naturally delicious and comforting Pasta e Piselli? This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation. Go ahead, give it a try! And don’t forget to share your photos with us – we love to see your creations. Naturally subscribe to our newsletter for more naturally amazing recipes!
