Spring Pea Mint Pasta is one of those dishes that perfectly captures the essence of early spring. I love how the sweetness of fresh peas pairs beautifully with the cool, refreshing notes of mint. It’s a dish that feels light yet satisfying, making it ideal for those days when you want something nourishing but not heavy.

What I appreciate most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that tastes vibrant and thoughtfully composed. The lemon zest and juice add a bright citrusy touch that lifts the whole dish, while the Parmesan brings a subtle richness.

This pasta is also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends on a sunny afternoon, it comes together quickly and looks inviting on the plate. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for different dietary preferences, which makes it a reliable go-to in my kitchen.

Overall, this recipe feels like a celebration of spring’s best flavors, offering a fresh and wholesome meal that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Quick Facts

Recipe Highlights

This spring pea mint pasta is one of those dishes I turn to when I want something fresh yet comforting. I usually whip it up in early spring, right when peas are at their sweetest and mint is just starting to flourish in my garden. The bright flavors of the peas and mint combined with al dente pasta create a simple, vibrant meal that feels like a breath of fresh air after a long winter. What makes it special to me is how effortlessly it comes together, yet it tastes like something you’d find in a cozy trattoria.

• Highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients for optimal flavor and nutrition
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules
• Vegetarian and can be easily made vegan with simple swaps
• Light but filling, ideal for springtime meals
• Uses minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly
• Balances bright citrus with fresh herbs for a refreshing taste

What You’ll Need

Gather these fresh ingredients to bring this spring-inspired pasta to life. The quantities are just right for four servings.

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
• 1 cup fresh peas (or thawed frozen peas)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for richness)

How to Make It

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare a flavorful and fresh spring pea mint pasta.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the peas to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
4. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the chopped mint and Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture.
6. If desired, stir in butter for extra creaminess. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve immediately, topped with toasted pine nuts and extra Parmesan.

Helpful Tips

Here are some tips to make your spring pea mint pasta turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh peas when possible for the best sweetness; frozen peas work well in a pinch.
• Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and keep it silky.
• Don’t overcook the peas—they should remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
• Add lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go to balance brightness.
• Toast pine nuts gently in a dry pan to bring out their nuttiness without burning.

Ingredient Swaps

If you need to swap out some ingredients, here are some alternatives that work well without compromising flavor.

• Use fresh basil or parsley instead of mint for a different herbaceous note.
• Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative.
• Replace pine nuts with toasted walnuts or almonds for crunch.
• Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Substitute shallots with finely chopped onions or scallions.

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips.

• Store pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
• Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and pasta may suffer.
• Add fresh herbs after reheating to revive the bright flavors.

What to Serve With It

Complement your spring pea mint pasta with these simple sides and drinks.

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Lightly toasted crusty bread or garlic bread
• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Steamed asparagus or roasted baby carrots

Common Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe and helpful answers.

Nutritional Info