Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta

Name: Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (linguine or spaghetti); 200g fresh peas (or frozen, if pressed for time); 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 cloves garlic; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I love making Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta as the weather warms up. It’s a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the vibrant flavors of homemade pesto. Every bite bursts with freshness, elevating simple pasta into a celebratory meal. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a colorful plate that not only tastes great but also looks amazing on the table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:38:19.122Z

When I first made Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta, I was amazed at how a few fresh ingredients could create such an unforgettable flavor. The vibrant green of the peas mixed with the bright green pesto created a picturesque plate that made eating feel like a celebration. I recommend using fresh pasta if you can; it cooks quickly and adds a different texture.

One key tip I learned is to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining the pasta. Adding this starchy water to the finished dish can help the sauce adhere better, enhancing the creaminess and overall flavor. I can't get enough of this simple yet delightful dish!

Why You'll Love This Dish
Fresh, vibrant flavors that capture the essence of spring
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile: can be made vegetarian or loaded with proteins

The Perfect Pasta for Every Palate

Choosing the right pasta can enhance your Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta experience. Linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, offering a canvas for the vibrant pesto. If you're feeling adventurous, try using whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a nutritional boost. Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures that it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy pesto and tender peas. Aim for a cooking time just shy of the package recommendation for an optimal bite.

When selecting peas, fresh is always best. Look for bright green, firm pods that snap easily. If you're short on time, frozen peas are a great alternative; they’re picked at peak freshness and retain their sweetness. Add the peas to the pasta during the last two minutes of cooking, allowing them to cook through without losing their vibrant color and crisp bite.

Mastering Your Pesto

Pesto is a key flavor component of this dish, and homemade is vastly superior to store-bought. The freshness of the basil, combined with the richness of the olive oil and the sharpness of Parmesan, creates a sauce that perfectly adheres to the pasta. When blending, don’t rush the process; allow your food processor to run until the ingredients are fully emulsified and glossy. You can adjust the consistency by adding reserved pasta water to achieve your desired texture.

If you’re looking to customize your pesto, consider swapping out walnuts or pine nuts for the traditional ingredients. Pecans or sunflower seeds can give your pesto a unique twist while keeping it nut-free. Additionally, adding a handful of arugula along with the basil can give a slight peppery kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile while maintaining the bright green hue of the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

300g pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
200g fresh peas (or frozen, if pressed for time)
1 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon

These ingredients will come together beautifully with a quick technique.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set aside.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. You can adjust the texture by adding some reserved pasta water if it's too thick.

Combine and Serve

In the same pot, combine the drained pasta with the prepared pesto and fresh peas. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Adjust with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding some roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken to your dish. You can also substitute other greens like spinach or arugula for the pesto.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta is versatile enough to be made ahead of time. If you prepare the pesto in advance, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep the vibrant green color, cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil before sealing. When you're ready to serve, just mix the pesto with freshly cooked pasta and peas for a quick meal.

If you have leftover pasta, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pesto. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta gummy; the skillet method allows for better texture retention.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spring Peas and Pesto Pasta for a dinner party, consider garnishing with additional Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an added crunch. A slice of crusty bread on the side complements the dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up any extra pesto left on your plate.

For a heartier meal, try adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Cook these separately and toss them in just before serving to ensure they stay juicy. The bright, fresh flavors of the pasta will bring a lovely balance to the protein while maintaining the spring theme.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried pasta instead of fresh?

Yes, dried pasta works well; just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can omit the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute for the cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water to refresh the pasta.

→ Can I freeze the pesto?

Yes, pesto freezes well! Pour it into ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer to a bag for easy portioning.