Pasta with peas and potatoes is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a delightful harmony of flavors. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick yet satisfying meal that highlights the natural sweetness of peas and the creamy texture of tender potatoes.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this pasta dish is a versatile choice that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.
Inspired by traditional European peasant cooking, this recipe elevates humble potatoes and peas with aromatic herbs, olive oil, and a touch of garlic to create a dish that’s both rustic and elegant. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a filling, carb-rich meal that appeals to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta with peas and potatoes recipe is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and fresh.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh peas and potatoes for an easy-to-source meal.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Vegetarian and Versatile: Can be made vegan by skipping cheese or adding your favorite vegan alternative.
- Nutritious: Combines protein-rich peas with energy-packed potatoes and whole grain or regular pasta.
- Comfort Food: The creamy potatoes paired with tender pasta and sweet peas make every bite satisfying.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegetarians)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta and potatoes
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta and potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes first, as they take longer to cook. After about 5 minutes, add the pasta and cook both together until the pasta is al dente and the potatoes are tender, about 8-10 minutes more. Add the peas in the last 2 minutes of cooking if using fresh or frozen. Drain all and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté aromatics: While the pasta and potatoes cook, heat 3 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning.
- Combine ingredients: Add the drained pasta, potatoes, and peas to the skillet. Pour in the 1/2 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to keep the dish moist and bring everything together. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Season and finish: Season generously with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using) until melted and well distributed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately, enjoying the creamy potatoes contrasted with tender pasta and sweet peas.
Tips & Variations
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamier texture that holds shape well. Russets can become too mushy.
If you want to make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Try adding other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and color. For a protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans.
Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used instead of parsley to change up the flavor profile. A squeeze of lemon juice added at the end brightens the dish beautifully.
For a heartier meal, stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and additional healthy fats.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350-400 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 65g |
Protein | 11g |
Fat | 7g |
Fiber | 6g |
Sodium | 250mg (varies with added salt and broth) |
Vitamin C | 20% Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
This pasta with peas and potatoes pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, such as a baby spinach salad recipe vegan for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread for a more substantial meal.
If you prefer a soup or stew before your meal, try the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food, which complements this pasta beautifully with similar comforting flavors.
For a different grain option, this recipe’s flavors also translate well into rice or polenta bases like in the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, giving you a whole new way to enjoy these ingredients.
Conclusion
This pasta with peas and potatoes recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. It’s a great way to enjoy a vegetarian meal that feels hearty and comforting without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
The combination of tender potatoes, sweet peas, and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a garlicky olive oil sauce makes it a go-to recipe for busy days or relaxed weekend meals.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers flexibility and room for creativity that can evolve with your taste preferences. Give it a try, and you might find it becomes a staple in your recipe collection.
For more delicious vegetarian and vegan meal ideas, be sure to explore other recipes on our site like the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for everyday inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Pasta with Peas and Potatoes
Description: A comforting and simple dish combining tender pasta with creamy potatoes and sweet peas. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or pasta water
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add peas to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Drain potatoes and pasta, reserving some pasta water.
- Add potatoes and pasta to the pan with peas and onions.
- Pour in vegetable broth or reserved pasta water and stir gently.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 58 g
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