Pea and Mint Pasta Delight

Name: Pea and Mint Pasta Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne); 2 cups fresh or frozen peas; 1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

I absolutely love making Pea and Mint Pasta Delight, and it's become a go-to dish in our home during springtime. The combination of fresh peas and fragrant mint creates a light yet satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. Each time I whip it up, the vibrant green hues and fresh flavors are a feast for the eyes and palate. Plus, it's quick to prepare, which is a total bonus on busy weeknights. Trust me, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:46:19.004Z

When I first made this Pea and Mint Pasta Delight, I was surprised by how refreshing and vibrant it tasted. The method of tossing the peas and mint with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors. I've learned that lightly cooking the pasta just until al dente locks in texture that holds the sauce beautifully.

As I experiment with variations, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish even more. It’s incredible how such simple ingredients can create a standout meal. I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the minty sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that celebrate seasonal ingredients
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for busy nights
Light yet satisfying meal ideal for any occasion

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The key to making Pea and Mint Pasta Delight truly shine lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Fresh peas not only bring a vibrant color but also add a sweet, crisp texture that frozen counterparts can sometimes lack. If you're using frozen peas, make sure to pick high-quality ones, as they should be bright green and firm. A quick blanch in boiling water helps to revive the flavor and keep their texture intact without turning mushy. This simple step can make a huge difference in the overall taste of your dish.

Mint serves as the star herb in this recipe, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweet peas. When selecting mint, look for bright green leaves without brown spots. Chopping it just before adding to the dish helps retain its essential oils and aroma. I always give it a gentle twist or slap to release those oils before mixing it in. This method offers a burst of flavor that elevates the simple pasta into a delightful, aromatic dish.

Cooking Techniques for Optimal Results

Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for keeping the dish light and enjoyable. I recommend using a large pot of well-salted water—this step enhances the pasta's flavor. Keep an eye on the pasta during the last minute of cooking; you'll want it to be firm yet tender. Draining it just before it’s fully cooked allows it to absorb the other flavors when mixed with the peas and mint. If you’re unsure, a quick taste test right at the end will guide you.

Tossing the pasta with the reserved cooking water along with the other ingredients not only adds moisture but also helps to create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. If you find the mixture too dry, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring gently until it reaches your desired consistency. An overly watery mix will dilute the flavors, so less is often more here.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful pasta dish:

Ingredients

200g pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne)
2 cups fresh or frozen peas
1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure to adjust quantities as needed based on serving size.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Pasta Delight:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Peas

If using fresh peas, blanch them in the boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain. For frozen peas, simply thaw them.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm pasta, peas, mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts. You can also experiment by adding peas and mint to other pasta dishes for a refreshing twist.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Pea and Mint Pasta Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. However, be mindful that reheating can slightly lessen the fresh mint flavor; adding a few fresh mint leaves while reheating can help revive that vibrant taste.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. I suggest using a freezer-safe container and ensuring it's well-sealed. When freezing, remember that the texture of the peas may change slightly once thawed, so this option works best if you plan to use it quickly within a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as mentioned earlier.

Variations You Can Try

You can easily customize this recipe to cater to various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, swap the Parmesan for a vegan cheese or leave it out entirely. Alternatively, adding a handful of baby spinach or arugula can increase the nutritional value while enhancing the dish’s green theme. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor if you're after a bit of heat.

If you're looking to add protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. These additions will create a more filling meal, perfect for those who prefer heartier dishes. Just ensure that any protein added is pre-cooked, as the pasta cooks fairly quickly and doesn't require additional cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?

While fresh mint is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried mint in a pinch. Use a smaller amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative for a lovely vegan meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would all pair nicely with the flavors of pea and mint.