Fresh Peas: little spheres of spring on the plate
Peas, stars of springtime lunches and dinners
With the arrival of spring, fresh peas return as main players on our tables. These legumes, known for their naturally sweet taste and multiple health benefits, are highly versatile in the kitchen and lend themselves to many recipes—from soups and side dishes to flavorful pasta dishes. Their seasonality makes them particularly appreciated during this time of year, when they can be enjoyed at the height of freshness and taste. Fresh peas are also a key ingredient in many traditional Italian dishes, such as the classic Neapolitan pasta and peas.
The benefits of peas
In addition to their flavor, fresh peas are a real concentrate of health, offering a wide range of nutritional benefits. According to alimentinutrizione.it, 100 grams of fresh peas provide an average of 64 calories, along with an excellent content of proteins (5.5–8.3 g), carbohydrates (6.5–9.8 g), and fiber (6.3–9.5 g). They are also a good source of vitamin C (32–48 mg), vitamin A (64–96 µg), and essential minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and iron. This nutritional profile makes fresh peas a great choice for those looking for a balanced, tasty, and health-conscious diet.
Pasta and peas recipes
Among the recipes that best showcase spring peas is pasta e piselli alla napoletana, a classic of Neapolitan home cooking. This dish features a “risotto-style” method, where the pasta is cooked directly in the sauce, gradually releasing starch to create a creamy, velvety texture. It starts by sautéing finely chopped onion in extra virgin olive oil, followed by diced pancetta, which adds a rustic, savory touch. The peas are then added and briefly simmered, before pouring in hot vegetable broth. When the broth begins to boil, short pasta—like tubetti or mixed pasta—is added. It’s cooked gradually, stirring often and adding more broth as needed. The dish is finished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano and, if desired, a fresh hint of mint. The result? A simple and genuine dish, full of spring flavor, that evokes home and tradition.
