Pasta And Peas With Tomato Sauce: Quick And Delicious

My best time in the kitchen was when I first made Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce. The dish came together so effortlessly, yet it was bursting with flavor.

The combination of creamy peas and rich tomato sauce over pasta is simply irresistible. The taste is comforting, with the sweetness of the peas balancing perfectly with the tanginess of the tomato sauce.

I was inspired to create this Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce one evening when I wanted something quick, healthy, and satisfying. It was a last-minute idea, but it turned out to be one of my favorites.

The Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce is incredibly delicious when served hot, with the pasta perfectly coated in the sauce. Friends and family love it too.

It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for anyone looking for a comforting meal that’s both tasty and nutritious!

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the preparation process, explain the nutritional benefits, and give you some helpful tips and variations.

So, let’s get started on making this easy, satisfying dish that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

How To Prepare Pasta And Peas With Tomato Sauce?

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian
• Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
• Yield: Serves 4

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• Large pot or saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer or colander
• Ladle or soup spoon

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250 ml) tomato puree or passata
• 1 cup frozen peas (fresh peas can also be used)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
• 12 ounces (350 g) ditalini pasta
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable stock

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients:

Start by chopping the onion finely. If you’re using fresh peas, rinse and set them aside. Otherwise, measure out the frozen peas.In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the onion:

Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent.

3. Add the tomato puree and spices:

Pour the tomato puree (or passata) into the pot with the onions.Stir in the dried basil, red chili flakes, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Cook the pasta:

While the tomato sauce is simmering, bring the vegetable stock to a boil in a separate large pot.Add the ditalini pasta to the boiling vegetable stock and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.

5. Add peas and combine:

In the last 2 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the peas to the pot with the pasta. Let them cook together.Once the pasta and peas are ready, drain them well, reserving a small amount of the stock for later use if needed.

6. Combine pasta, peas, and sauce:

Add the drained pasta and peas directly into the tomato sauce, stirring gently to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved vegetable stock to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve:

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the pasta and peas hot, and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal!

Notes:

❖ Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

❖ Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat it in a pan with a little water or broth to keep it moist.

Serving Ideas

This pasta and peas with tomato sauce can be served as a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

➨A fresh green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the pasta.

➨Who doesn’t love garlic bread on the side? Toasted, buttery bread with a hint of garlic adds a crispy texture to your meal.

➨Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant are perfect for adding some smoky flavors to balance the dish.

Health Benefits

➤The peas in this recipe provide a great source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

➤Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that promotes heart health and reduces inflammation.

➤The combination of peas and pasta provides a decent amount of plant-based protein, which is great for muscle repair and overall body function.

➤This dish is light on fats and uses olive oil, a healthy fat that can improve cholesterol levels.

Variations

1. Creamy Tomato and Peas Pasta:

Add a bit of heavy cream or plant-based cream to the tomato sauce to make it creamy and smooth, creating a richer texture.

2. Pasta with Bacon or Pancetta:

Fry some bacon or pancetta in olive oil and toss it into the pasta for a smoky, savory flavor that complements the peas and tomato sauce.

3. Lemon Zest and Parmesan:

Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and grated Parmesan cheese for a burst of freshness and extra flavor.

4. Spinach and Garlic:

Stir in some fresh spinach and minced garlic to the sauce for a green, garlicky twist and added nutrition.

5. Spicy Arrabbiata Style:

Add more red chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce to make the dish spicy, turning it into an Arrabbiata-style pasta with a fiery kick.

Tips And Tricks

1. Always cook pasta al dente (firm to the bite) so it doesn’t get mushy when you mix it with the sauce. Make sure to salt your water generously for better flavor.

2. When draining the pasta, save a cup of the cooking water. Adding a little to the sauce helps create a silky texture and helps the sauce stick to the pasta better.

3. If you have fresh tomatoes, use them instead of canned passata for a more vibrant, fresh taste. Simply blend or chop them and cook down for your sauce.

4. Taste and season the sauce as you go. Add salt, pepper, and spices gradually, checking the flavor at each step.

5. Let your tomato sauce simmer for a bit longer to allow the flavors to develop and deepen. A slow simmer adds richness to the sauce.

6. For the best flavor, combine the pasta and sauce in the pan before serving, letting the pasta soak in some of the sauce.

7. Finish the dish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and a pop of color. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for richness.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers of Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce, simply transfer the dish to an airtight container once it has cooled down to room temperature.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month.

To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back its creamy texture. This makes for an easy and delicious meal later on!

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Conclusion

Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweetness of the peas, combined with the tangy tomato sauce, creates a harmonious taste that satisfies every time.

It’s versatile enough to customize with different ingredients or seasonings, making Pasta and Peas with Tomato Sauce a great go-to meal.

With its easy prep and delicious results, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!