Quick Pesto Pasta and Peas

Pesto Pasta with Peas is a super quick family dinner that’s ready in about 20 minutes. It has plant-based protein, lots of flavor, and is endlessly versatile Win!

Pesto Pasta with Peas

Okay, first things first: Yes, pesto is green. And yes, I know that sometimes is a no-go with kids. BUT it pairs so well with favorite foods like pasta that it has, in my experience, a high chance of being accepted by the kids.

It adds such a yummy flavor to this easy recipe that we make it all the time. I keep a stash of Spinach Pesto in my freezer (or you can simply buy pesto at the store) so I can make this for hot lunches to send to school in a thermos or for easy meals to make at home.

We love having this pasta recipe with peas for added protein and fiber, and also because we like the flavor. There are lots of other options, so see the Notes at the end of the recipe for all of the variations.

Ingredients You Need

To make this easy family meal you’ll need to have the following ingredients on hand and ready to go.

• Pasta: You can use any variety or shape of pasta that you like here. We tend to make this with smaller shapes so it’s easy to eat with a spoon.
• Frozen peas: Frozen “petite peas” are usually less starchy and more pleasant to eat than larger ones, so that is my choice here if possible.
• Pesto: You can use homemade Spinach Pesto, Kale Pesto, or Avocado Pesto, or use basil pesto (or even vegan pesto) from the store.
• Parmesan: Grated or shredded Parmesan is a nice addition for more flavor before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a look at the process so you know what to expect from making this recipe. Scroll down to the bottom of the post for the full recipe.

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Place the frozen peas into the bottom of a colander. Drain the pasta, pour it right over the peas to thaw and warm them.
3. Return the pasta and peas to the pot and stir in the pesto.
4. Serve warm.

Alternatives to Peas

The beauty of this recipe is that you can use the pesto and the pasta and leave out the peas. You can sub in broccoli (toss it into the pasta water for the last 4 minutes while the pasta is cooking), diced zucchini (toss it into the pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes while the pasta is cooking, or leave out another veggie all together.

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm through to serve.

Best Tips for Success

• Add in a handful of basil if you want, though we love this pesto without basil too.
• Add a few cups of diced and cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage if desired.
• Instead of peas, you can use broccoli (toss it into the pasta water for the last 4 minutes while the pasta is cooking), diced zucchini (toss it into the pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes while the pasta is cooking), or leave out another veggie all together.
• Use whichever pasta your family prefers.
• To make this dairy-free, use a vegan pesto.

I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe if you make it, so please comment below to share!

To make the pasta:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions.

• Place the peas into the colander (still frozen) and drain the pasta over the peas. The peas will thaw almost instantly. Return to the pot.

• The pesto can be stored in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer in a zip top storage bag (pressed flat and with as much air removed as possible) for up to 3 months.
• This is enough sauce for a pound of pasta. Use a little less if your pasta package is smaller and store the leftovers for another day.
• To Use this Spinach Pesto as Pizza Sauce: Simply spread the pesto onto prepared pizza crust and prepare as you normally would with regular tomato-based sauce. For a full size pizza, about ½ cup of pesto is usually the right amount. Adjust as needed.
• Kale Pesto: Swap in baby kale or regular kale removed of the stems for the spinach. Make as directed.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese and consider adding an extra ¼ cup sunflower seeds. Add a little nutritional yeast for extra flavor if desired.
• Add in a handful of basil if you want, though we love this pesto without basil too.
• To freeze a batch for later, add 1 cup of pesto to a freezer bag, press the air out, flatten, and seal. Freeze for up to 2 months. It will quickly defrost at room temperature. (You can also break off a chunk and add it frozen right into whatever amount of pasta you make and as you stir it in, it will thaw.)
• Add a few cups of diced and cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage if desired.
• Instead of peas, you can use broccoli (toss it into the pasta water for the last 4 minutes while the pasta is cooking), diced zucchini (toss it into the pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes while the pasta is cooking), or leave out another veggie all together.

Calories: 401kcal, Carbohydrates: 51g, Protein: 14g, Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 8g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 6mg, Sodium: 175mg, Potassium: 355mg, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 1739IU, Vitamin C: 22mg, Calcium: 113mg, Iron: 2mg