Description
A refreshing and creamy spring pasta dish made with peas, mint, and a hint of garlic, perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 150 g (5.3 oz) Green peas (frozen)
- Water
- Fresh mint leaves
- 30 g (1.1 oz) Extra virgin olive oil
- 15 g (0.5 oz) Pine nuts – or other nuts
- Garlic or garlic powder (a pinch)
- 2 servings Pasta
- Salt
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water and adding your chosen pasta. As it cooks, you will notice it becoming tender and fragrant. This step is crucial for getting that perfect bite. Watch carefully—overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that does not hold sauce well.
- Blend the Peas and Mint: After cooking the pasta, toss the peas and fresh mint into a food processor. Give it a whirl until it is smooth and vibrant. The fresh minty scent will fill your kitchen. Just keep an eye on the blending time; too little, and it will be chunky rather than creamy.
- Mix in Cream: Add cream to the blended mixture. Stir gently while heating it on low until it is warmed through and slightly thickened. Avoid boiling it to prevent separation, which can mess with that silky texture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Now, toss the cooked pasta into the creamy pea and mint sauce. You will see the beautiful green color enveloping the pasta. This step allows the flavors to mingle. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep it light and airy.
- Tweak with Pasta Water: If you find the dish too dry, slowly add some reserved pasta water until you are happy with the creaminess. You are aiming for a luscious consistency that coats each piece beautifully. Just be cautious with the amount; too much will make it soupy.
- Season and Serve: Finish up by sprinkling in salt and pepper to taste. The final dish should smell heavenly with a hint of mint and cream. It is best to taste test as you go to avoid over-seasoning, making sure it suits your palate just right.
Notes
- Store any leftover pesto in the fridge for no more than 2 days.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add pasta water until it reaches your desired level of creaminess.
- When blending the pesto, ensure it is smooth by mixing longer or adding a bit more olive oil.
- If fresh mint is unavailable, substituting with dried mint works well; just use less to prevent overpowering flavors.
- For added nutrition and convenience, frozen peas are a fantastic choice that saves time while still being healthy.
- If you need a quicker meal, starting with pre-cooked pasta can cut your overall cooking time significantly.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra pine nuts on top.
- Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Top with grated vegan cheese if desired.
- You can add lemon zest for brightness.
- Incorporate arugula for a peppery flavor.
- Mix in roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
- For the best quality, choose fresh mint and bright green peas.
- If you are out of pine nuts, any preferred nuts can be used as a substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: null
- Sugar: null
- Sodium: null
- Fat: null
- Saturated Fat: null
- Unsaturated Fat: null
- Trans Fat: null
- Carbohydrates: null
- Fiber: null
- Protein: null
- Cholesterol: null