Michael's Linguine w/ Lemon & Peas

pea pasta5

File this under recipes from memory & good stories.

My friend Michael, a NYC bachelor cooks for one on a budget.

He came from an Italian family of 9 children and he seems to know how to whip up a pasta dish for himself without having to go to the market during the week.

Whether it be anchovies, garlic, olive oil or black pepper, he can make a delicious dinner from what he has in the cabinet.

For this recipe, as long as you have some frozen peas and a lemon, you are in business (and pasta, of course).

I added the mint to the recipe because I have it in the garden and I love peas with mint. They just belong together.

Michael's Linguine with Lemon & Peas:

1/2 box of linguine (8 oz.)
olive oil
1 cup of frozen peas
1 small onion, chopped
1 small clove garlic, chopped
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
lemon zest
salt & pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
freshly shaved Parmigiano Reggiano

fresh chopped mint (optional)
2 tbsp butter (optional)



In a heavy skillet, large enough to hold the pasta, heat some olive oil and cook the chopped onion and garlic on low heat for about 2 minutes, just until fragrant.
You don't want to brown the onion, just wilt it.

Cook your linguine in salted boiling water as per directions. Add the frozen peas the last minute of cooking together with the pasta.
Before draining, save 1/4 cup of pasta water and set aside.

Add the peas and pasta to the onion and garlic in the skillet and add lemon zest and more olive oil. Add the reserved pasta water and season with salt & pepper and mix well.
If you want a little more richness, you can add a tablespoon or two of butter, but I don't bother.

Garnish with fresh chopped mint & Parmesan cheese.



Comments

Pantry pasta suppers are the best. I made one just the other night. I still have some snap peas in the fridge, so I may have this for dinner tonight! Thanks!
Love these simple recipes "from memory." This one has such bright, summer flavors.
The JR said…
I would love that. Hubby on the other hand - you couldn't get him to eat a single pea.

He picks every one out of his food.
Ciao Chow Linda said…
The telltale sign of a good cook is someone who can put together a delicious meal from just what's on hand - and this one looks great. BTW, does Michael have a girlfriend? You know I have a single daughter (who would cringe at the mention of this)
Kathy Walker said…
I love pasta suppers! This one would hit the mark at our house.
Dana said…
I've recently learned that I like pasta best when it is really simple. The days of adding a million things to it are over for me. I always have all that stuff on hand and should totally keep it in mind on the days when I am considering ordering Thai takeout.
kat said…
What a simple tasty pasta
Jen_from_NJ said…
Good for Michael - I love simple pasta dishes - so much better than expensive and unhealthy takeout! I love that you added mint - just perfect with the peas.
The Food Hunter said…
I love the peas in this simple yet delicious recipe!
Michael won't be single long if he can cook like this! Maybe a little matchmaking with Linda's daughter isn't a bad idea!
Jasmine said…
Oh, this recipe is SO Italian, I love it :)
Must be delicious :)
Best regards from Italy
Jas
momgateway said…
It reminds me of a spaghetti dish created by an Italian priest in Japan---so simple with just the basic ingredients but fresh and flavorful!