Pasta Primavera with Peas and Mint: A Fresh Spring Recipe
A vibrant garden-fresh mix of vegetables and herbs brings creamy comfort to any meal.
Pasta Primavera with Peas and Mint
There’s nothing like the burst of fresh peas and aromatic mint in a hearty bowl of pasta to capture the spirit of spring. Light, bright, and full of flavor, Pasta Primavera with Peas and Mint is a delightful, easy-to-prepare dish that transforms simple ingredients into a celebration of the season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: 30 minutes or less from start to finish.
- Seasonal flavors: Highlights spring produce like peas, snap peas, and fresh mint.
- Versatile: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Meatless but rich and satisfying thanks to creamy parmesan and lemon.
What is Pasta Primavera?
Pasta Primavera is a classic Italian-American dish that means “spring pasta.” Traditionally, it features an abundance of lightly cooked seasonal vegetables tossed with pasta and finished with cheese and herbs. This version spotlights crisp-tender peas and snap peas, creamy cheese, zingy lemon, and aromatic mint for an irresistible fresh take on a beloved staple.
Ingredients
The secret to this vibrant pasta is using the freshest ingredients you can find. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus extra for pasta water
- 1 lb. fettuccine (or pasta of your choice)
- 8 oz. snap peas, trimmed and cut into thirds
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped (plus more for topping)
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper
Optional variations: Try adding chopped asparagus, snow peas, fresh spring herbs like parsley or basil, or a pinch of red chili flakes for gentle heat.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook to al dente as per package instructions. - Add the Vegetables:
With about 2 minutes left in the pasta’s cooking, add the snap peas and frozen peas to the pot. They’ll blanch quickly, turning bright green and keeping their fresh crunch. - Reserve Pasta Water & Drain:
Before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water—this liquid gold will help bind and emulsify the sauce. Drain the pasta and vegetables. - Create the Sauce:
Return the pasta and vegetables to the warm pot over medium heat. Add the grated parmesan, heavy cream, and about 1/3 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss constantly for 2 minutes, until parmesan melts and the sauce thickens gloriouslty. Add more pasta water if the sauce seems dry. - Finish with Flavor:
Off the heat, add lemon zest, lemon juice, freshly chopped mint, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine. - Serve:
Pile into warm bowls, top with extra mint or parmesan, and enjoy immediately!
Tips for the Best Pasta Primavera
- Don’t overcook the veggies. Give peas and snap peas just a quick cook—crisp-tender is key for color and texture.
- Reserve the pasta water. Creamy sauces benefit from starchy pasta water to bring everything together.
- Use fresh lemon and mint. Both impart vibrant, lively notes that bottled juice or dried herbs can’t match.
- Experiment with add-ins. Try asparagus, zucchini, snow peas, or even a handful of baby spinach wilted right at the end.
- Make it heartier: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for extra protein.
Ingredient Spotlight: The Stars of Spring
This pasta primavera highlights two essential spring ingredients:
| Ingredient | Role in Recipe | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Peas | Deliver subtle sweetness, pop of green color, and essential nutrients | Use frozen peas for ease, or substitute fresh if available |
| Snap Peas | Add crunch and freshness, balancing creamy sauce | Trim ends and slice into bite-size pieces |
| Fresh Mint | Brings bright, herbal lift and a taste of spring | Chop just before adding for maximum aroma |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with: A light salad of mixed greens or arugula, drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Wine: Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry rosé complement the vibrant flavors.
- Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce.
What others are reading
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Pasta: Use penne, rigatoni, pappardelle, or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Seasonal Swaps: In early summer, try small zucchini rounds or yellow squash alongside peas.
- Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free parmesan and coconut cream or oat cream for a completely plant-based meal.
- More Herbs: Add chopped fresh basil, chives, or parsley for even more freshness.
Why Add Mint to Pasta Primavera?
Fresh mint isn’t just for desserts or tea! In this pasta, mint’s sweet aroma and cool notes elevate the earthy peas and creamy sauce. When combined with lemon, mint brightens every bite—making the dish taste lighter and more refreshing. It’s a secret weapon that transforms simple ingredients into something special, especially for spring and summer meals.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 15g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
Values may vary depending on exact portion and added ingredients.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Pasta may absorb sauce, so add a splash of water or cream when reheating.
- Do not freeze: Creamy pasta sauces can separate after freezing and thawing.
- Make-ahead tips: Prep veggies ahead and store in the fridge. Cooked pasta can be rinsed and tossed lightly in olive oil, then kept chilled before final assembly.
More Pasta Primavera Inspirations
- Southwestern Pasta Salad: Bright, zesty, and perfect for potlucks.
- Shrimp Pasta Salad: A great summer-ready lunch.
- Cheesy Ham Tetrazzini: Comfort food ideal for using leftovers.
- Chicken Pasta Recipes: Make your primavera a complete meal with tender chicken breasts or thighs.
- Pasta alla Vodka: Creamy tomato-based classic if you love rich sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh peas are delicious in this recipe. If using fresh, blanch them for 1-2 minutes with the snap peas to maintain their tenderness and sweetness.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta, cooked according to package directions.
Q: What other vegetables can I add?
Chopped asparagus, zucchini, bell pepper strips, snow peas, or even cherry tomatoes added in the last minute of cooking work beautifully in this dish.
Q: Will the mint overpower the dish?
No. Mint adds subtle freshness and shouldn’t overpower the other flavors. If you’re unsure, start with less, then taste and adjust before serving.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a bit longer before tossing with pasta, or add a sprinkle more cheese. Reserved pasta water also helps emulsify and thicken sauces naturally.
Pasta Primavera Variations Table
| Ingredient Addition | Flavor Impact | How to Add |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Asparagus | Earthy, tender-crisp | Add with peas for last 2-3 minutes of cooking |
| Snow Peas | Sweeter, extra crunch | Slice and add with snap peas |
| Basil or Parsley | Herbal, aromatic | Stir into finished dish just before serving |
| Red Chili Flakes | Mild heat | Sprinkle in with the cream sauce |
| Lemon Zest | Bright, zingy | Add at the end with lemon juice and mint |
More Tips to Make Your Pasta Primavera Stand Out
- Cheese matters: Grate parmesan fresh for the best flavor and melt.
- Don’t rinse pasta: The natural starch helps sauce cling and thicken.
- Serve immediately: Primavera loses its texture if left to sit too long. Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for best results.
- Craving protein? Top with poached eggs, rotisserie chicken, or sautéed shrimp for extra heartiness.
Conclusion: Celebrate Spring with Pasta Primavera
This Pasta Primavera with Peas and Mint is the essence of spring—fresh, fast, and full of flavor. With peas, snap peas, mint, lemon, and creamy cheese, each bite delivers a taste of the season. Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable: perfect as a quick weeknight dinner, a festive brunch, or a crowd-pleasing side at spring gatherings. Cook up a pot and savor the simple joys of seasonal eating!
References
- https://www.food.com/recipe/pioneer-womans-pasta-primavera-329975
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32628756/pasta-primavera-with-peas-and-mint-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36005919/creamy-pasta-primavera-recipe/
- https://www.aol.com/light-pasta-dishes-packed-spring-215000611.html
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