Italian Pasta & Peas

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.

Cooking Method: Sautéing, Stewing

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 6

Calories: 132.6

Dietary: Vegetarian

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

1/4 cup Olive oil
1 medium Onion, chopped
1 large Garlic clove, chopped
2 teaspoons Tomato paste
1 14-oz can Peeled Italian plum tomatoes
1 8-oz can Sweet peas (do not drain)
1 lb Small shells, ditalini, or macaroni
to taste Fresh basil, mint, and oregano
to taste Grated Romano or Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)

Directions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
3
Add chopped onion and cook until softened and transparent, about 5 minutes.
4
Stir in chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5
Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
6
Add canned plum tomatoes with their liquid, breaking them up with a fork or spoon.
7
Pour in the undrained can of sweet peas.
8
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
9
Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, do not rinse.
10
Season the sauce with fresh basil, mint, and oregano to taste.
11
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
12
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.

Keywords: italian pasta, peas, tomato sauce, vegan, quick dinner, pasta soup, basil, garlic, onion, weeknight meal, comfort food, shell pasta, ditalini, plum tomatoes, herbs, simple recipe, family dinner, leftovers, easy cooking, mediterranean

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/italian-pasta-peas/