Ingredients
12 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups sweet peas (fresh or frozen, thawed)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add Peas:
Stir in sweet peas and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Combine Pasta & Sauce:
Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Season & Serve:
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
Notes
💡 Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook the peas—they should stay bright green and slightly sweet.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce (pre-shredded can be grainy).
- Reserve pasta water—it’s key for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a subtle brightness.
🔄 Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Veggie Swap: Mix in asparagus, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream (sauce will be thinner).
- Vegan Option: Substitute with plant-based cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast.
- Herb Upgrade: Stir in fresh mint or basil for a spring-inspired twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g