Pasta with Radicchio and Peas

Name: Pasta with Radicchio and Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (your choice); 1 small head of radicchio, chopped; 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen); 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Dinner Recipes

I truly love the vibrant combination of flavors in this pasta dish, where the slight bitterness of radicchio meets the sweetness of peas. The first time I made it, I was pleasantly surprised by how well these ingredients complement each other. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a quick and delightful option for any day of the week.

Created by

The Hazelsrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T21:09:49.902Z

When I first encountered radicchio, I was intrigued by its bold color and unique flavor. I decided to pair it with sweet peas and pasta, and the outcome was nothing short of a delightful surprise. The bitterness of the radicchio was beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the peas, creating a dish that was both visually appealing and delicious.

I particularly enjoyed how quickly this dish comes together. The bright flavors are able to shine through, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. One tip I have is to cook the pasta just until al dente and toss it immediately with the other ingredients to ensure it absorbs the flavorful sauce!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The vibrant colors and flavors brighten up your plate and palate
A perfect balance of bitter and sweet, creating a unique taste experience
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on this delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients for Pasta with Radicchio and Peas

300g pasta (your choice)
1 small head of radicchio, chopped
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Have everything ready to go? Let’s move on to cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Pasta with Radicchio and Peas.

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped radicchio and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to wilt. Add the peas and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your freshly prepared dish!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be prepped ahead of time, especially if you're planning a busy weeknight. You can chop the radicchio and have your peas ready to go the night before. However, I would recommend cooking the pasta and combining all ingredients right before serving to keep the pasta al dente. If you do combine everything in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and plan to reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to help maintain moisture.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated quickly in a skillet over medium-low heat. Just remember to add a little olive oil or water to help rehydrate the pasta and prevent sticking. If you find any remnants are a bit dry, a splash of vegetable broth as you reheat can also work wonders.

Flavor Variations and Pairing Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors! For a more robust taste, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the sautéing step. You can even toss in some cooked sausage or pancetta to introduce a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the peas. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be folded in right before serving for an extra fresh note.

In terms of serving suggestions, this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or a fresh loaf of crusty bread to soak up any remaining olive oil and cheese. For wine pairing, a chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chianti complements the earthy flavors beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this recipe.

→ Is radicchio necessary for this dish?

While radicchio adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with kale or spinach for a different touch.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just skip the cheese if you want it to be vegan.