Creamy Lemon Pasta With Peas

Name: Creamy Lemon Pasta With Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti or pasta of choice; 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Studio

I love indulging in a comforting bowl of pasta, and this creamy lemon pasta with peas holds a special place in my heart. It combines the zest of fresh lemon with the sweetness of peas, creating a vibrant dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. The creamy sauce coats each strand of pasta, making every bite a flavorful experience. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple to prepare and packs a punch of bright flavors that can easily impress family and friends.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:29:36.487Z

When I first experimented with lemon in pasta, I was blown away by how well the tangy flavor pairs with creamy sauces. I started with a classic carbonara base but added a hefty dose of lemon juice and zest. The result was a light yet rich sauce that instantly elevated my usual pasta routine. Don’t skimp on the fresh herbs; they add a burst of color and even more flavor!

There’s something magical about how the peas blend into the creamy sauce, providing a natural sweetness that complements the lemon perfectly. I often keep frozen peas handy since they cook quickly and retain their vibrant color. For a hint of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes—it really brings the dish to life!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The bright zing of fresh lemon that brightens your day
A creamy sauce that envelops the pasta in a heavenly embrace
Packed with vibrant peas for a delightful pop of color and flavor

The Role of Lemon in This Dish

Lemon is the star of this creamy pasta, providing a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream. The combination of lemon zest and juice adds complexity; the zest gives a punchy aroma, while the juice balances the dish with acidity. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice doesn't match the vibrancy of fresh juice and can lead to an overly tart finish. Remember to taste as you go; you might prefer a touch more lemon depending on your palate.

When incorporating lemon, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking it in the sauce. Adding lemon juice too early can diminish its fresh flavor. Instead, stir in the juice just before serving to retain that zesty brightness. If you find yourself with an abundance of lemons, consider zesting and juicing them, then freezing in ice cube trays for easy access in future dishes.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The creamy sauce for this pasta is rich yet light, thanks to the heavy cream. It's essential to heat the cream gently over medium heat to prevent it from curdling. Stir consistently while it warms, and avoid letting it boil. You want the cream to thicken slightly and envelop the pasta beautifully without forming a grainy texture. If you're looking for lighter options, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute, keeping in mind that this may alter the richness slightly.

To ensure a well-balanced flavor, taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning. A little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice can make a significant difference. If your sauce seems too thick after combining with the pasta, gradually add some reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency. The starch from the pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a luxurious coating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy lemon pasta with peas is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Serve it as a side alongside a fresh salad to introduce some crunch and contrasting flavors. If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and texture. Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds sprinkled on top can also add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

For meal prepping, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of additional cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s consistency. However, be cautious with freezing; the cream may separate upon thawing, resulting in an unappealing texture. If you must freeze, consider par-cooking the pasta and storing the sauce separately, then combining them fresh when ready to serve.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g spaghetti or pasta of choice
2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the pot. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta and peas back to the pot. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching the desired consistency. Toss to combine and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider incorporating grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce just before serving. It will enhance the creaminess and flavor of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize this recipe, several ingredient substitutions can maintain its integrity. Instead of traditional spaghetti, you might try whole grain or gluten-free pasta, adjusting the cooking time according to the type you choose. For a vegan twist, a plant-based cream alternative can be utilized, and nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor; just remember to adjust the saltiness of the dish accordingly.

Green peas are versatile; fresh ones add a wonderful sweetness, but frozen peas work just as well, with the added convenience of not requiring any prep. If you want to explore different textures, consider adding blanched asparagus or broccoli florets, which complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is the sauce becoming too thick. If this happens, simply add in a tablespoon of reserved pasta water at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Alternatively, if the sauce is too loose, letting it simmer gently for a few extra minutes can help it reduce and thicken without losing flavor.

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the pasta. For the best texture, always err on the side of slightly undercooking, as the pasta continues to cook when mixed with the hot sauce. Keep a close eye during the final cooking stages, and rely on a quick taste test to ensure the perfect al dente texture.

Storage Tips

To store leftover creamy lemon pasta, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a saucepan on low, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to bring it back to life without scorching.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the pasta, though keep in mind that the sauce may alter in texture. If freezing, consider doing so without the peas, as they can become mushy. Store it in portions for easy reheating during busy weeknights, making weeknight dinners effortless while enjoying this delightful dish anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other pasta shapes?

Absolutely! This sauce works well with any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be great additions for extra protein.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove.