1 Portion Creamy Pasta With Peas 455 calories.

Creamy pasta with peas is a simple and delicious meal that can be made in just a few minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting and filling dinner. The peas in this recipe provide a pop of color and nutrients, while the creamy sauce adds a decadent touch.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, cooking methods, nutrition facts, and benefits of creamy pasta with peas. We'll also provide suggestions on how to make this dish healthier and more flavorful, as well as alternatives to using peas and different types of pasta to try. Let's get started!

Ingredients of the Creamy Pasta With Peas

To make creamy pasta with peas, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients can be easily found at any grocery store or pantry, and the recipe can be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary restrictions.

How to Cook Creamy Pasta With Peas

Here are the steps to make creamy pasta with peas:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through and slightly softened.
4. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the pea and cream sauce. Toss until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
7. Serve hot with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper on top.

This recipe makes one serving but can be easily multiplied to serve a larger group. You can also add other vegetables or proteins to the dish to make it more filling and nutritious.

Nutrition Facts of Creamy Pasta With Peas

Here are the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of creamy pasta with peas:

• calories: 455
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated fat: 14g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg

These nutrition facts may vary depending on the type of pasta and other ingredients used, but this dish is generally high in calories and fat. However, it also provides a good amount of protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Benefits of Eating Creamy Pasta With Peas

Creamy pasta with peas can offer several health benefits, including:

• Peas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can aid in digestion and help lower cholesterol levels.
• The heavy cream in this recipe provides a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for strong bones and teeth.
• Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help boost your immune system and prevent infections.
• The Parmesan cheese used in this recipe provides a good source of calcium and protein, which can help support bone and muscle health.

However, it's important to enjoy this dish in moderation and balance it with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

How to Make the Pasta Healthier

If you want to make this dish healthier, you can try the following tips:

• Use whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and make it more filling.
• Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat and calorie content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
• Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce the saturated fat content and add heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Add more vegetables to the dish, such as roasted bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.

These changes can help make this dish more nutritious without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Delicious Add-ons to Pasta

To add more flavor and nutrition to creamy pasta with peas, you can try adding the following:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.
• Roasted garlic for a more intense garlic flavor and added health benefits.
• Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme for added aroma and nutrients.

These additions can help elevate the dish and make it more interesting and satisfying.

Pasta Toppings That Compliment Peas

If you're looking for toppings that go well with creamy pasta with peas, you can try the following:

• Additional Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Black pepper for a classic seasoning.
• Lemon zest for a bright and refreshing flavor.

These toppings can add depth and complexity to the dish and make it more enjoyable to eat.

Alternatives of Peas in Pasta

If you don't like peas, or if you want to try different vegetables in this dish, you can substitute them with the following:

• Broccoli or cauliflower for added nutrients and crunch.
• Zucchini or eggplant for a more Mediterranean twist.
• Mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Corn or green beans for a more refreshing touch.

These alternatives can provide a unique twist to the dish and cater to different tastes and preferences.

Types of Pasta That Would Go With Peas

Creamy pasta with peas can be made with different types of pasta, including:

• Penne for a classic and sturdy choice.
• Fusilli or rotini for added texture and shape.
• Bowtie or farfalle for a more sophisticated presentation.
• Shells or orecchiette for a more playful and fun twist.

These pasta types can provide different textures and shapes to the dish and make it more visually appealing.

Creamy Pasta With Peas Recipe Variations

Creamy pasta with peas can be a versatile recipe that can be tweaked and modified to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a salty and savory touch.
• Substitute the Parmesan cheese with goat cheese or blue cheese for added richness and depth of flavor.
• Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a more complex and sophisticated dish.
• Add grilled chicken, beef, or tofu for added protein and satiety.

These variations can help make the dish more interesting and enjoyable to eat and cater to different dietary needs and restrictions.