There’s something about spring peas that just tastes like sunshine. Sweet, fresh, and vibrant, they bring life to even the simplest dishes. This Spring Pea Pasta is one of my go-to recipes when I want something quick, light, and delicious. It’s cozy enough for a weeknight but also feels special enough for a date night at home. Best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes and will pair beautifully with this Mixed Cucumber Salad !
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 2
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Dinner ready in 20 minutes.
- Fresh & Bright – Lemon zest and peas give it that springtime vibe.
- Perfect for Two – No leftovers, just the right amount.
- Customizable – Add pancetta, chicken, or mushrooms if you want to switch things up.
Ingredients
- 6 oz (about 170 g) pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh mint or basil, chopped (optional but recommended)
How to make Spring Pea Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the pot with the pasta. Drain together.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta and peas to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until pasta looks glossy and well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving.
Spring Pea Pasta
2
servings5
minutes15
minutes545
kcalIngredients
6 oz (about 170 g) pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite)
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
A handful of fresh mint or basil, chopped (optional but recommended)
Directions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the pot with the pasta. Drain together.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta and peas to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until pasta looks glossy and well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving