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Sweet pea pesto pasta brings together spring freshness and creamy comfort for the perfect easy yet impressive meal. The first time I tossed this together on a busy Tuesday, I was floored by how green and vivid it looked on the table and now it is my potluck go-to dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta eight ounces: Choose your favorite shape like spaghetti or penne and look for bronze cut or high quality semolina for best texture
- Fresh sweet peas two cups: Use thawed frozen peas if fresh are not in season Look for vivid green color and taste a few for sweetness
- Fresh basil leaves one cup: Good basil makes or breaks a pesto Pick bright unbruised leaves or try small leaf Thai basil for a twist
- Pine nuts one quarter cup: Walnuts work as a swap but pine nuts add buttery texture Toast lightly in a dry pan for extra flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese one half cup: Grate yourself just before using or buy good Parmigiano Reggiano
- Olive oil one half cup: Rich fruity extra virgin gives the pesto body and flavor
- Garlic two cloves: Fresh minced garlic lifts everything but go slow if you want a milder taste
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste and use flaky salt if you have it
- Optional lemon juice: Adds fresh zing and balances the sweetness of the peas
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a big pot of water to a rolling boil and salt it generously Add your pasta and cook till just al dente following the package instructions Scoop out half a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining because it helps make the sauce creamy
- Blend the Pesto:
- In a food processor combine sweet peas basil nuts Parmesan olive oil garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper Blend until very smooth scraping down the sides Taste and adjust seasoning If it feels too thick add a splash of pasta water or a little lemon juice
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Return cooked pasta to the warm pot Pour the pesto sauce over the top and pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water Toss thoroughly over low heat for two to three minutes letting the pesto cling to every strand Add more water until you reach a silky glossy texture
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste again for seasoning Serve hot sprinkled with extra Parmesan cheese more basil or a few toasted nuts if you like This dish is best with a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving
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Storage Tips
This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Just put leftovers in a tightly sealed container and reheat gently with a splash of water on the stovetop The pesto can also be made ahead and refrigerated separately for up to four days
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh peas Try frozen peas or even edamame for a twist
Lactose free Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan hard cheese
No pine nuts Use roasted walnuts almonds or sunflower seeds for a budget friendly pesto
Gluten free Use your go to gluten free pasta like brown rice or chickpea varieties
Serving Suggestions
Pile the pasta high in a big family bowl and top with shaved Parmesan and fresh basil Serve it as a main or a side with roast chicken or grilled shrimp Pair it with a salad of bitter greens and lemon vinaigrette for a perfect spring dinner
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Cultural and Historical Context
Pesto is a centuries old tradition from Liguria in northern Italy where it began with basil pine nuts garlic and cheese The sweet pea version gives a nod to the gardens of spring when peas and herbs are in peak season It is one of those blends that respects tradition but wins over everyone with its twist
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen sweet peas instead of fresh?
Yes, thawed frozen sweet peas work well and still provide a sweet, springlike flavor.
- → What pasta shapes pair best with this dish?
Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or farfalle all hold the pesto beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
- → Are there alternative nuts if I don’t have pine nuts?
Walnuts, almonds, or cashews are great substitutes and blend easily into the pesto sauce.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Swap Parmesan for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to keep the flavors rich and creamy without dairy.
- → Does lemon juice enhance the flavor?
A splash of lemon juice brightens the sauce and balances earthy and creamy elements for a fresher finish.