introduction
I made this Farmer’s Market Pasta to use fresh peas and cheese in a simple meal. It cooks fast and tastes fresh. For another easy creamy pasta idea, see this butter chicken pasta recipe.
why make this recipe
This dish is quick, uses few ingredients, and shows off fresh market peas and basil. It is creamy without heavy sauce and fits busy weeknights.
how to make Farmer’s Market Pasta
You cook peas and pasta, make a quick cheese mix, then combine and broil with fresh mozzarella on top. The steps are simple and the result is warm, cheesy, and fresh.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup peas
- 2 cups dry pasta (whole wheat shells)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 tablespoon butter
- 3/4 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- fresh torn basil
- 4 thinly sliced pieces of fresh mozzarella
Directions :
- Cook peas and drain.
- Set peas aside.
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Drain pasta and toss with peas and butter.
- While peas and pasta cook, combine ricotta, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
- Season the cheese mix with salt and pepper.
- Stir in parmesan, grated mozzarella, and torn basil.
- Add the cheese mixture to the pasta and add reserved pasta water.
- Stir the pasta until the sauce is smooth.
- Divide the pasta into ramekins and top each with a slice of fresh mozzarella.
- Broil at 400 degrees or higher for about 5 minutes, until the cheese has melted.
how to serve Farmer’s Market Pasta
Serve hot from the ramekins. Add a few torn basil leaves on top and a grind of black pepper. Serve with a small green salad or warm bread.
how to store Farmer’s Market Pasta
Cool the pasta, then cover and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven until warm, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst.
tips to make Farmer’s Market Pasta
– Use fresh peas when you can for best flavor.
– Save a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
– Do not overcook the pasta; al dente holds the sauce better.
– If you use cottage cheese, blend well so the texture is smooth.
variation (if any)
You can add cooked shrimp or diced cooked chicken for protein. Swap basil for spinach or arugula for a different green. Use tomato slices instead of fresh mozzarella for a different top.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen peas?
A: Yes. Thaw or cook them with the pasta. Drain well before adding.
Q: Can I make this without a food processor?
A: Yes. Mash the ricotta and garlic well with a fork and whisk in the oil until smooth.
Q: Can I skip broiling?
A: Yes. You can sprinkle the mozzarella on top and bake at 350°F until warm, or just stir in grated mozzarella for a no-broil version.
Conclusion
This Farmer’s Market Pasta is quick, creamy, and fresh. For another take and more tips, see Quick Farmer’s Market Pasta Recipe | Tyler Florence | Food Network.