Pasta with Creamy Pea and Basil Sauce: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish

Introduction

Pasta with creamy pea and basil sauce is a refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of green peas with the vibrant aroma of fresh basil. This simple recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering a balance of creamy texture and herbal flavor. The sauce is made from blended peas, basil, and a few other fresh ingredients, creating a light and nutritious alternative to heavier cream-based sauces.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a smooth, vibrant green sauce that coats your favorite pasta beautifully. The combination of fresh peas and basil makes this dish stand out, while the creamy texture ensures it feels indulgent yet light.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300 grams of pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well)
• Salt for pasta water

For the Pea and Basil Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Peas

While the pasta is cooking, steam or blanch the peas. If using frozen peas, cook them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. Fresh peas will take about 5 minutes. Drain the peas and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Pea and Basil Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked peas, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend the ingredients until smooth, adding the vegetable broth or water gradually to help achieve a creamy consistency. You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less broth.

Once the sauce is smooth, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again to incorporate the seasoning.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl or the pot used for cooking the pasta, combine the cooked pasta with the pea and basil sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the vibrant green sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and help it adhere to the pasta.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is well-coated with the creamy pea and basil sauce, transfer it to a serving dish. For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top (optional) and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves.

Serve the pasta warm and enjoy the fresh flavors of sweet peas and aromatic basil in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Pasta with Pea and Basil Sauce

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peas and basil will give the best flavor and color to the sauce. However, if fresh peas aren’t available, frozen peas work just as well.
• Adjust the consistency: You can control the creaminess of the sauce by adjusting the amount of vegetable broth or pasta water you add. For a thicker sauce, add less liquid; for a looser, more fluid sauce, add more.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice: The lemon juice brightens up the flavor of the sauce and enhances the sweetness of the peas.

Variations to Try

This creamy pea and basil sauce is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences:

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian protein boost.
• Make it vegan: Omit the Parmesan and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Add other greens: Spinach, arugula, or kale can be blended into the sauce for an extra nutrient boost.
• Include more veggies: Toss in some roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta with creamy pea and basil sauce is a delicious and light meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to complement it:

• As a main dish: Pair the pasta with a simple green salad or a slice of garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
• As a side dish: Serve alongside grilled vegetables, fish, or poultry for a complete dinner.
• For meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prepping. You can enjoy it cold as a pasta salad or warm it up for a quick meal during the week.

Conclusion

Pasta with creamy pea and basil sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of peas and the freshness of basil in a light, creamy sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this vibrant green pasta will certainly hit the spot.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the refreshing flavors of peas and basil in every bite!