Imagine a dish so simple yet so irresistible that even the pickiest eaters will clean their plates with a smile. These Kid Requested Butter Noodles with Peas Parmesan are the secret weapon every parent needs in their culinary arsenal! Combining the creamy richness of butter, the sweet pop of peas, and the savory magic of Parmesan cheese, this recipe transforms ordinary spaghetti into a mouthwatering meal that takes just 15 minutes to prepare.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Carefully add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
- During the last 2-3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the frozen peas directly to the boiling water with the pasta. This will gently heat the peas and cook them simultaneously.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat, ensuring it doesn't brown. Set aside.
- Once the pasta and peas are cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and peas in a colander.
- Return the pasta and peas to the pot, and pour the melted butter over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered pasta and peas. Stir to distribute the cheese and create a light, creamy coating.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to help the cheese and butter create a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir one final time to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of pasta, peas, and cheese.
Tips
- Salt your pasta water generously - it's your first chance to add flavor to the dish.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; the starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce.
- Melt butter on low heat to prevent burning and ensure a smooth coating.
- Add frozen peas directly to boiling pasta to save time and minimize dirty dishes.
- Grate fresh Parmesan if possible - it melts more smoothly and tastes more vibrant than pre-grated cheese.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is hot for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra kid-friendly appeal, let children help sprinkle the cheese or stir the pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 516kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 16g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 73mg
