Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta with Peas and Parmesan
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta; 1½ cups frozen peas; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic; ¾ cup heavy cream; ¾ cup parmesan cheese; salt; black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Creamy Garlic Pasta with Peas and Parmesan

weeknightitalianvegetariancomfort food

5 minPrep15 minCook4Serves

Ingredients

12 ouncespasta
1½ cupsfrozen peas
3 tablespoonsbutter
4 clovesgarlic
¾ cupheavy cream
¾ cupparmesan cheese
·salt
·black pepper
¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes (optional)

Method

01
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes.
02
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
03
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
04
Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, about 1 minute. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
05
Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add pasta and frozen peas to the cream sauce.
06
Toss gently, adding pasta water a splash at a time (usually 2-4 tablespoons) until the sauce coats the noodles and peas evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until peas are heated through.
07
Divide among bowls, top with extra parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Spice Tips

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter with the garlic for subtle heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice stirred in at the end brightens the cream nicely. Fresh mint or basil scattered on top adds a pop of freshness.

This dish comes together in about 20 minutes. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich. Leftovers reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or pasta water.