For more years than I’d like to admit, I had one (and only) dish that I made for friends who came over for dinner:  Pasta and Peas.  It’s such a SIMPLE and easy dinner that it’s a little embarrassing when people ask me for the recipe.  But let me tell you, this recipe is delicious and will probably become one of your family’s favorite dinners as soon as you make it for them.

It’s not only easy to make, you almost always have the ingredients on hand.  All you need is pasta, olive oil, garlic, sun dried tomatoes, crushed red peppers, frozen peas and Locatelli (or your favorite Parmesan or Romano cheese).

It’s as easy as this:

BOIL:  a pot of water—Add a little olive oil and salt

SAUTE:  the garlic until lightly brown (add crushed red peppers if you like it spicy) in a few tablespoons of olive oil

ADD:  the sundried tomatoes and defrosted peas to the garlic and olive oil

TOSS:  the pasta into the oil mixture and add some freshly shaved Locatelli cheese on top.

You can serve this as the main meal by adding some protein.  Grilled shrimp or chicken are always delicious.

The best part of this dish is that you can substitute your favorite ingredients and turn it into something new.  Try whole wheat pasta, a touch of pesto, grilled or sautéed shrimp (or chicken), hot or sweet Italian sausage, or whatever you love. If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean pasta, skip the Locatelli and peas and add feta cheese, kalamata olives, and grilled shrimp. Sprinkle it with some freshly chopped mint right before serving.

I LOVE vegetables and I’ve tried nearly all of them in this dish:  broccoli, carrots, long hot peppers, asparagus, red or yellow peppers, and leeks.  Trust me; you can’t go wrong with this recipe.  And don’t forget to add fresh basil or other herbs if you happen to have them.

Use your imagination and ENJOY!  And please share your favorite super-easy recipe(s) with us since we could all use some new ideas.

Happy Cooking!

Molly

*This blog is dedicated to Jon for putting up with many nights of pasta and peas…and eventually learning to love it!!