This Italian Pasta & Peas is a comforting, rustic dish that marries the sweetness of peas with rich, savory tomato sauce. The combination of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and oregano adds a bright, aromatic lift to the deep flavors of plum tomatoes and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal comes together in under 40 minutes using simple pantry staples. The texture is satisfyingly thick yet spoonable, often described as a “pasta soup,” making it ideal for scooping up with crusty Italian bread. It’s a versatile recipe that feeds a crowd easily and leaves everyone feeling nourished and satisfied.
Italian Pasta & Peas
Description
This Italian Pasta & Peas is a comforting, rustic dish that marries the sweetness of peas with rich, savory tomato sauce. The combination of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and oregano adds a bright, aromatic lift to the deep flavors of plum tomatoes and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal comes together in under 40 minutes using simple pantry staples. The texture is satisfyingly thick yet spoonable, often described as a "pasta soup," making it ideal for scooping up with crusty Italian bread. It&# 226;ÂÂs a versatile recipe that feeds a crowd easily and leaves everyone feeling nourished and satisfied.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook until softened and transparent, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
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Add canned plum tomatoes with their liquid, breaking them up with a fork or spoon.
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Pour in the undrained can of sweet peas.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
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Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, do not rinse.
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Season the sauce with fresh basil, mint, and oregano to taste.
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Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
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Serve warm in bowls, topped with grated cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 132.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.0g24%
- Saturated Fat 2.1g11%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.0mg0%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This dish has a loose, soup-like consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a splash of pasta water to adjust texture.
For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan/Romano cheese or use a vegan parmesan alternative.
Frozen peas can be substituted for canned; add them directly to the simmering sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping in the rich tomato-pea sauce.