Discover the delightful flavors of Italy with our "Pasta with Leeks and Peas" recipe! This simple yet elegant dish combines the sweetness of tender leeks and vibrant green peas, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that will impress your family and friends, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the leeks into thin rounds, making sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Set aside.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After the leeks have softened, add the peas to the skillet. If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them first. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring gently until the peas are heated through and tender.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the leeks and peas.
- Gently toss the pasta with the leeks and peas, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the pasta warm. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to taste, enhancing the dish's flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, slice the leeks and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and keep you organized in the kitchen.
- Choosing Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as fusilli or penne, to enhance the overall texture of the dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Remember to taste your pasta a minute or two before the package instructions say it’s done. You want it al dente—firm to the bite!
- Leek Cleaning: Leeks can be gritty, so slice them first and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt trapped between the layers.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you find the pasta too dry after mixing, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
