Pea and Mint Pasta Twirl

Name: Pea and Mint Pasta Twirl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (like fusilli or spaghetti); 200g fresh peas (or frozen); Fresh mint leaves (a handful); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Speedy Supper Recipes

I love whipping up this Pea and Mint Pasta Twirl whenever I want a light and refreshing dish. The vibrant green peas paired with fresh mint create a beautiful and fragrant combination that never fails to impress. It’s a quick recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous dinner party. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and each bite bursts with flavor. Trust me, this dish will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-12T14:29:19.046Z

I discovered this delightful Pea and Mint Pasta Twirl on a warm summer evening when I wanted something light yet satisfying. The combination of fresh peas and aromatic mint brings a pleasant garden-fresh flavor that transported me right into the season. Perfectly twirled around each other, the pasta holds the garden goodness beautifully, creating a dish that looks as great as it tastes.

This recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something special. I recommend using fresh peas if possible; they have an amazing sweetness that frozen peas simply can’t match. A touch of lemon zest at the end brightens up the entire dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors of peas and mint
Quick and easy preparation in just 20 minutes
A creamy texture that clings to every twist of pasta

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right shape of pasta can greatly influence the dish. Fusilli or spaghetti both work well, but the curls of fusilli hold onto the creamy sauce better. Aim for cooking the pasta just right—al dente, which usually means cooking it a minute or two less than the package instructions. The texture should be firm to the bite; this ensures that it will continue to cook slightly even after draining.

Don't forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is magic when it comes to binding the sauce to the pasta, creating a silkier mouthfeel. When you add it back to the pan, start with a tablespoon and gradually increase if needed until you achieve the desired consistency.

Mint: The Secret Weapon

Fresh mint is crucial in this recipe, as its vibrant flavor brightens up the dish. Opt for spearmint or garden mint, both of which have a sweeter, milder flavor that pairs beautifully with the peas. If fresh mint is unavailable, you can use 1/3 the amount of dried mint, though it will lack some of the freshness.

When adding mint, chop it roughly rather than mincing it finely. This will allow the leaves to maintain some texture, providing bursts of flavor rather than a continuous herbal note. Add the mint right at the end to preserve its aromatic oils—cooking it too long can dull its vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate this dish further, consider serving it with a side of grilled chicken or shrimp. Both proteins complement the lightness of the pasta and add a satisfying element to the meal. For a vegetarian twist, sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine just before serving. Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to bring back the creamy sauce without overcooking the peas.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta (like fusilli or spaghetti)
200g fresh peas (or frozen)
Fresh mint leaves (a handful)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the peas. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving a little pasta water.

Make the Sauce

In a large pan, add the olive oil, lemon zest, and juice. Stir in the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and peas to the pan.

Add Mint and Season

Toss in the fresh mint and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated.

Serve

Divide into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your colorful, flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for some heat or substitute the peas for asparagus during the spring season.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on a low flame, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it moist. However, be cautious not to overheat, as this could make the peas mushy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. It’s best to freeze the pasta without the sauce, as dairy-based sauces can become gritty when thawed. Instead, mix the cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil before freezing, and store the mint and sauce separately. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and rewarm both components together in a pan.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue with creamy pasta dishes is that the sauce can become too thick and clingy if too much pasta water is added. Start small with about a tablespoon. You can always add more, but removing excess water is tricky. The ideal sauce consistency should lightly coat the pasta without being soupy.

If you find the final dish lacking flavor, increase the lemon juice or zest in the sauce slightly to balance the creaminess with acidity. Sometimes, a sprinkle of additional salt can enhance the flavors, so always taste before serving. Keep fresh grated Parmesan available; a quick sprinkle can elevate the dish significantly.

Scalability of the Recipe

This recipe scales beautifully for larger gatherings. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward; just ensure that you have a large enough pot for the pasta and enough surface area in your pan to toss everything together without overcrowding. Cook time remains the same, but keep an eye on water temperatures and pasta texture as more might require slight adjustments.

When scaling, remember that the mint’s freshness is key. More mint will enhance the flavor profile, but if you’re unsure, increase it gradually to avoid overpowering the dish. Having a rough measurement of roughly 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves per 300g of pasta is a good rule of thumb.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen peas are a great substitute and will still provide excellent flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative!

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A light salad or grilled vegetables would pair wonderfully with this dish.