Introduction
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Pea Orecchiette is a delightful pasta dish that highlights the freshness of sweet peas, combined with the earthy tones of garlic and the richness of cheese. This recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. The vibrant green color and the smooth texture of the orecchiette make this dish not only appetizing but also visually appealing.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Orecchiette pasta – 300g
Fresh sweet peas – 200g
Garlic – 2 cloves
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese – 50g
Fresh mint leaves – a handful
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-4 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large frying pan, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Step 3: Add Peas and Broth
Once the onion is softened, add fresh or frozen peas to the pan. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained orecchiette to the frying pan with the peas. Stir well to combine, adding reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Remove the pan from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, ensuring to mix thoroughly until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Peas
You can use either fresh or frozen peas for this recipe; both work well.
Note 2: Vegan Option
For a vegan version, replace Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
Note 3: Additional Flavor
Feel free to add fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor.
Note 4: Leftovers
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days; just reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Making Orecchiette
Orecchiette is a traditional Italian pasta that is shaped like small ears. To make it, knead the dough until smooth, roll it into thin ropes, and cut into small pieces. Use your thumb to shape each piece into a small cup.
Cooking Pasta
When cooking orecchiette, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Sautéing Ingredients
Sautéing is a quick cooking method that involves frying ingredients in a small amount of oil. Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the sweet peas and other ingredients, and cook until tender for enhanced flavors.
Blanching Sweet Peas
To retain their vibrant color and crisp texture, blanch sweet peas by boiling them briefly in salted water and then plunging them into ice water. This method halts the cooking process.
Using Fresh Herbs
Using fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s flavor. Chop herbs just before adding them to ensure they retain their aroma and taste.
FAQ
Can I use dried orecchiette instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried orecchiette. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What type of peas can I use?
You can use frozen peas if fresh peas are not available. They are convenient and still provide great flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for variety and extra nutrients.
How can I store leftover pasta?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the dish is vegetarian-friendly, as it mainly includes pasta, sweet peas, and herbs.
Conclusion
The Sweet Pea Orecchiette recipe beautifully combines the sweetness of peas with the rich flavors of parmesan and mint, resulting in a fresh and vibrant dish that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering, showcasing the versatility of pasta and seasonal ingredients.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Orecchiette with Broccoli and Anchovies
A robust dish featuring tender broccoli, savory anchovies, and a hint of garlic, this pasta dish offers a delightful contrast to the delicate sweetness of the pea variation.
Sweet Pea and Lemon Risotto
For a creamy alternative, try a risotto that incorporates sweet peas and zesty lemon, delivering a refreshing and comforting bowl that’s perfect for any occasion.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Peas
Upgrade the classic spaghetti aglio e olio by adding sweet peas, providing an extra pop of color and flavor to the garlic-infused olive oil base.
Orecchiette with Spinach and Ricotta
This combination features sautéed spinach tossed with orecchiette pasta and creamy ricotta, resulting in a rich, comforting dish that pairs well with a light salad.
Farro Salad with Sweet Peas and Feta
A hearty salad that combines nutty farro with sweet peas and tangy feta cheese, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette for a nutritious and delicious meal.