Save This Pea and Ricotta Pasta with Mint is a celebration of spring on a plate. Sweet peas, creamy ricotta, and fresh mint come together to create a bright, refreshing dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it an ideal weekday meal, yet its vibrant flavors set it apart as something truly special.
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Combining the gentle sweetness of peas with tangy lemon zest and fragrant mint, this pasta dish offers a refreshing twist on traditional Italian cuisine. The ricotta imparts a luscious creaminess, while Parmesan adds a savory depth, making each bite satisfying and delightful.
Ingredients
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- Pasta: 350g short pasta (penne, fusilli, or orecchiette)
- Peas: 250g fresh or frozen peas
- Ricotta: 250g fresh ricotta cheese
- Parmesan: 50g grated Parmesan, plus extra for serving
- Aromatics: 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; Zest of 1 lemon
- Herbs: 1 small bunch fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Pantry: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water and drain.
- 2. Sauté garlic and peas: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic for 1 minute, then add peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- 3. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the pan. Off the heat, stir in ricotta, lemon zest, Parmesan, and half the mint.
- 4. Adjust consistency: Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.
- 5. Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining mint and extra Parmesan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
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Für zusätzlichen Frischekick kannst du eine Handvoll Babyspinat oder Rucola zusammen mit den Erbsen hinzufügen. So erhält das Gericht noch mehr Farbe und Nährstoffe.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Für eine vegane Variante lassen sich vegane Ricotta- und Parmesan-Alternativen verwenden. Wer es bevorzugt, kann auch glutenfreie Pasta einsetzen, um das Gericht allergikerfreundlich zu machen.
Serviervorschläge
Dieses frische Pastagericht passt hervorragend zu einem knackigen Sauvignon Blanc oder einem leicht fruchtigen Pinot Grigio und wird so zu einem leichten, genussvollen Essen.
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With its simplicity and vibrant flavors, this Pea and Ricotta Pasta with Mint invites you to embrace the best of seasonal produce in a dish that's as nourishing as it is delightful. Enjoy making this easy yet impressive meal anytime you want a taste of spring.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or orecchiette hold the sauce well and complement the peas and ricotta.
- → Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas can be used; just cook them slightly longer until tender and bright green.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce?
Reserve some pasta cooking water to stir into the pan along with ricotta and cheese, helping to coat the pasta evenly.
- → What herbs enhance this dish?
Fresh mint is key for brightness; adding it both during and after cooking brings vibrant flavor.
- → Are there easy variations to try?
Try adding baby spinach or arugula for extra greens, or toasted pine nuts for crunch and texture.
