Pea Ricotta Pasta Mint (Printable)

A bright pasta featuring sweet peas, creamy ricotta, and fresh mint for a light, flavorful meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or orecchiette
02 - Salt for pasta water

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 2/3 cups fresh or frozen peas
04 - 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
05 - Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon

→ Dairy

06 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

→ Herbs & Seasonings

08 - 1 small bunch fresh mint leaves, finely chopped, approximately 0.5 oz
09 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water, then drain pasta in a colander.
02 - While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add peas to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, slightly longer if using frozen peas, until bright and just tender.
04 - Add drained pasta to the pan with peas and toss until well combined.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in ricotta, lemon zest, Parmesan, and half of the chopped mint. Add enough reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
06 - Season with salt and plenty of black pepper. Divide among plates and sprinkle with remaining mint and extra Parmesan.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick and easy—ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish
  • Bursting with fresh spring flavors from sweet peas, lemon, and mint
  • Creamy and satisfying without being heavy, perfect for warmer weather
  • Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable to vegan diets
  • Requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques
  • Beautiful presentation that looks as good as it tastes
02 -
  • Always reserve pasta water before draining—it's your secret weapon for creamy sauces
  • Don't overcook the garlic; one minute is enough to release its aroma without bitterness
  • Use room-temperature ricotta for easier mixing and a smoother sauce
  • Tear or chop mint just before using to preserve its vibrant flavor and color
  • Cook peas just until tender to maintain their sweet flavor and bright green color
  • Toss everything off the heat to prevent the ricotta from separating or becoming grainy
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