Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in minutes? Then look no further! This ditalini pasta with peas recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and packed with nutritious goodness. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ditalini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for a richer sauce
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained ditalini pasta, frozen peas, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and the sauce slightly thickens. If you're using heavy cream, stir it in now.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ditalini Pasta with Peas:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Cook it just until it's tender but still has a slight bite.
- Use fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that's hard to replicate with dried basil.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the pasta before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add some protein: For a more complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta.
Variations:
- Lemon zest and juice: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Different vegetables: Substitute the peas with other vegetables like broccoli florets, spinach, or asparagus.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy version: Incorporating heavy cream elevates this dish to a richer, creamier delight.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cream):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, naturally rich in carbohydrates from pasta and protein from cheese. The addition of peas adds vital vitamins and fiber to this dish. Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Always use a nutrition calculator for accurate estimations based on your ingredients.
This simple ditalini pasta with peas recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy food can be. It's a quick dinner idea that the entire family will love. So, ditch the takeout menus and try this recipe tonight! You won't regret it.