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Pea and Spinach Herb Pasta

This pea and spinach pasta is a quick, fresh dish that uses the technique of infusing herbs directly into boiling water for a subtle aromatic lift. Made with simple ingredients like peas, spinach, and fresh herbs, it results in tender pasta coated with a vibrant, grassy flavor and a slightly silky texture. The final dish is bright, fragrant, and visually appealing, with vibrant greens and a light, herbaceous finish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti preferably a slightly thicker variety
  • 1 cup frozen peas rinsed before adding
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil divided, plus extra for finishing
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and squeezed
  • to taste salt for water and seasoning

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp Knife
  • Chopping board

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until it turns golden and releases a warm aroma.
  3. Add the rinsed frozen peas directly to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until they turn bright green and release their sweetness, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse; set aside.
  5. Immediately add the drained pasta to the skillet with peas and garlic. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the garlic-infused oil.
  6. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 1 minute until it wilts and turns a vibrant green. If the mixture seems dry, splash in a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  7. Add the chopped herbs and a generous squeeze of lemon juice, then toss everything together. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a silky finish.
  8. Taste and season with more salt or lemon as needed. Give everything a final toss to combine all the flavors beautifully.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an aromatic, vibrant dish that’s fresh and satisfying.