Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary culinary experience in just 20 minutes! This Pasta Peas with Smoked Almonds and Dill is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine. With its perfect blend of creamy pasta, sweet peas, crunchy smoked almonds, and fresh dill, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that proves gourmet meals don't have to be complicated!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup smoked almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the frozen peas directly to the boiling water with the pasta, allowing them to cook and heat through.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the smoked almonds and fresh dill, keeping them ready for final assembly.
- Before draining the pasta and peas, reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water, which will help create a silky sauce.
- Drain the pasta and peas in a colander, then return them to the warm pot.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pasta and peas, and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Add chopped smoked almonds and fresh dill to the pasta, stirring to distribute throughout.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, using the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce if needed.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional dill or almonds if desired.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously—it should taste like the sea to ensure well-seasoned pasta.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; the starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating silky, clingy sauces.
- Toast the smoked almonds briefly in a dry pan before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use fresh dill if possible, as it provides a brighter, more vibrant taste compared to dried herbs.
- For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche.
- Don't overcook the peas—they should remain bright green and slightly firm for the best texture.
- If you want a protein boost, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to make this a more substantial meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
