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Pasta e piselli with parsley and cheese, plus utensils.

Pasta e Piselli

This Pasta e Piselli dish is a comforting Italian classic originating from Campania, Naples. It combines ditalini pasta and sweet peas in a flavorful broth, enriched with pecorino romano. Sautéed onions and a hint of red pepper flakes add depth, creating a hearty, satisfying meal. Customize with optional pancetta for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for busy foodies seeking a quick, delicious meal with an adventurous twist. Enjoy it hot, straight from the stove!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Entree, Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8
Calories 416 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven or other large, heavy bottomed pot

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ditalini pasta or other small pasta, such as shells
  • ½ C extra vigin olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes up this to your taste
  • 1 lb frozen peas
  • 4 C chicken broth unsalted
  • 1¾ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1 C pecorino romano grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest optional

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden.
  • Sprinkle in red pepper flakes and sauté for an additional minute.
  • Add frozen peas, chicken broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Then, turn down to a medium simmer.
  • Toss in ditalini pasta and cook directly in the broth until al dente, stirring often.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Add butter and pecorino to the pot, stir until well combined.
  • Add lemon zest and parsley at the end, if desired.

Video

Notes

  • Stir Often: While cooking, be sure to stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • Adjusting Consistency: If the dish becomes too dry during cooking, you can add a bit more water or chicken broth as needed. Alternatively, placing a lid on the pot can help retain moisture.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Grated parmesan or asiago can be delightful alternatives to pecorino romano.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair this Pasta e Piselli with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 250gCalories: 416kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 614mgPotassium: 182mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 161IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 155mgIron: 1mg
Keyword pasta con piselli, pasta e piselli, pasta piselli, piselli e pasta
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