Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, where each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy goat cheese, sweet peas, and refreshing mint. This isn't just another pasta recipe – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 25 minutes. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or someone who craves quick yet sophisticated dishes, this Spaghetti with Goat Cheese, Peas, and Mint is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the spaghetti.
- While the water is heating, prepare the other ingredients. Measure out 1 cup of frozen peas and set aside. Crumble the 4 oz of goat cheese and chop the 1/4 cup of fresh mint. Set these aside as well.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 8 oz of spaghetti to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- About 2 minutes before the spaghetti is done, add the frozen peas to the pot. This will allow the peas to cook and heat through without becoming mushy.
- When the spaghetti and peas are cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander. Return the drained spaghetti and peas to the pot.
- Drizzle the 2 tbsp of olive oil over the spaghetti and peas. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that the oil coats the pasta evenly.
- Add the crumbled goat cheese and chopped mint to the pot. Toss everything together, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and create a creamy sauce.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to combine all the flavors.
- Serve the spaghetti warm, garnished with additional mint leaves or goat cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti with Goat Cheese, Peas, and Mint!
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously – it should taste like the sea to properly season your pasta from within.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; the starchy liquid is liquid gold for creating silky, clingy sauces.
- Add peas towards the end of cooking to maintain their bright color and prevent overcooking.
- Let the residual heat melt the goat cheese for a naturally creamy sauce – no extra pans required!
- For an extra flavor boost, toast some pine nuts or add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
- Use fresh mint if possible; it provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Choose a soft, creamy goat cheese that melts easily for the best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
