Description
Pasta e Piselli is a comforting Italian classic featuring fresh peas, smoky plant-based bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. This quick and easy recipe combines vibrant flavors and balanced textures, perfect for a cozy dinner or a nutritious weekday meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh peas
- 4 slices smoked plant-based bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), chopped
Optional Variations
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes (for vegetarian-friendly option)
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (for a spicy twist)
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas or white beans (for heartier version)
- Sprinkle of nutritional yeast (as cheese substitute)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (for herb variations)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Cut the smoked plant-based bacon into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the fresh peas and set all ingredients aside for quick access.
- Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil (natural) in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the plant-based bacon so it crisps slightly and releases its smoky flavor.
- Add Peas and Broth: Pour in the fresh peas and stir well. Add vegetable broth and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), bringing the mixture to a simmer to create a flavorful broth.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta directly to the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is al dente and peas are tender.
- Finish with Plant-Based Cheese (plant-based): Reduce heat and stir in the plant-based cheese (plant-based) until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs over the dish. Serve warm, enjoying the mix of vibrant colors and textures.
Notes
- Use fresh peas whenever possible for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Do not overcook pasta; aim for al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of vegetable broth to your preferred consistency, soupier or drier.
- Add the plant-based cheese at the end for a creamy, luscious finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Pasta e Piselli, Italian pasta, pea pasta, plant-based recipe, quick dinner, plant-based cheese, smoky bacon substitute
