Macaroni & Peas Delight (Printable)

Tender pasta paired with sweet peas and a creamy, flavorful sauce ready in minutes.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz dried macaroni

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup frozen or fresh green peas
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy & Flavorings

05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
06 - 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Black pepper, to taste
10 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook following package directions until al dente.
02 - In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add peas to the boiling water with the pasta.
03 - While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Drain pasta and peas, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
05 - Add drained pasta and peas to the skillet with onions. Stir in milk or cream, Parmesan cheese, a splash of reserved pasta water, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss over low heat until creamy and evenly coated, adding more pasta water if necessary.
06 - Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy weeknight meal
  • Budget-friendly and family comforting
02 -
  • You can easily make this recipe gluten free by using certified gluten free macaroni.
  • For a vegan or dairy free version substitute butter with olive oil plant based milk and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
03 -
  • If using fresh peas blanch them before adding to the pasta for best texture.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for extra flavor.
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