Easy Creamy Vegetarian Small Shell Pasta Recipe

This vegetarian small shell creamy pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying and healthy meal that bursts with wholesome flavors! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy evenings at home, this dish combines tender pasta shells with a luscious cheese sauce made from creamy ricotta cheese, tangy Parmesan, and garlic-infused mushrooms. Enhanced with vibrant lemon juice and sweet peas, each bite is sure to please. I think you have found one of your new favorite dishes!

This pasta dish:

• Is a kid-friendly meal! It will be a hit with the entire family!
• is a comforting meal that is easy enough to make any day of the week.
• is a delicious meal that is even appropriate for special occasions.
• uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.
• is a budget friendly vegetarian meal.
• contains healthy vegetables!
• is an easy recipe that on the table in minutes!

This quick meal contains servings of healthy vegetables that have numerous health benefits.

1. Frozen Peas:
   • Peas are a good source of plant-based protein, providing essential amino acids that your body needs for muscle repair and growth.
   • They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, manganese, and folate, which support overall health and well-being.
2. Olive Oil:
   • Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
   • It also contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
   • Using olive oil in moderation as a source of healthy fat can contribute to overall health and well-being.
3. Garlic Cloves:
   • Garlic is known for its potent medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
   • It contains compounds like allicin, which may help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.
4. Mushrooms:
   • Mushrooms are low in calories and fat but rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.
   • They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and support overall health.

1. Prepare Pasta and Peas:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the small shell pasta and follow the recommended cooking time on the package instructions to reach al dente.
   • In the last few minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot with the pasta. Cook until the peas are tender, then drain the pasta and peas together. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water and set aside.
2. Saute Garlic and Mushrooms:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are tender and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare Creamy Sauce:
   • Over low heat, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the skillet with the garlic and mushrooms. Stir well to combine.
   • Add the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheeses have melted and formed a creamy sauce.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked shells and peas to the skillet with the ricotta mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
5. Adjust Consistency:
   • Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water will help thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the pasta and season with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper as needed.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or other fresh herbs.

Here are some serving suggestions to complement this creamy vegetarian small shell pasta recipe:

1. Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a simple side green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a light lemony dressing. Try this Cosi Signature salad recipe or a mixed greens salad with creamy kiwi vinaigrette.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pasta as a side dish with a medley of roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli florets. The roasted veggies add texture and flavor to the meal while providing an extra dose of nutrition.
3. Grilled Protein: Add grilled protein such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan on the side or on top of the pasta for an extra boost of protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also be served for non-vegetarians.
4. Fresh Herbs: Garnish the pasta with additional herbs such as fresh basil, thyme, or chives for a burst of color and flavor. The herbs add a fragrant touch to the dish and enhance its overall appeal.
5. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side to sprinkle over the pasta. This adds a spicy kick and allows each diner to customize their dish according to their taste preferences.

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by making a few simple substitutions. Use vegan cheese such as vegan ricotta cheese and vegan Parmesan cheese. Additionally, ensure that the small shell pasta does not contain any eggs. With these swaps, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this creamy pasta dish.

Absolutely! You can use fresh peas instead of frozen in this recipe. Simply shell the fresh peas and add them to the pasta during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking. Cook until the peas are tender, then drain the pasta and peas together as directed in the recipe.

For meal prep, cool the cooked pasta and sauce, then store them separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. When ready to eat, gently reheat the sauce on the stove, adding water or plant-based milk if needed. Toss with freshly cooked pasta and enjoy a delicious meal in minutes!

Here are some additional vegetables you can add to this creamy vegetarian small shell pasta recipe to enhance its flavor and nutritional profile:

1. Spinach: Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet when sautéing the garlic and mushrooms. The spinach will wilt down and add a pop of vibrant color and nutrients to the dish.
2. Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets until tender, then add them to the pasta along with the sauce. Broccoli adds texture and a boost of vitamins and minerals to the dish.
3. Bell Peppers: Sauté sliced bell peppers along with the garlic and mushrooms for added sweetness and crunch. Bell peppers come in various colors and are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
4. Cherry Tomatoes: Halve or quarter cherry tomatoes and add them to the pasta just before serving. The tomatoes will add a burst of juicy flavor and freshness to the dish.
5. Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Slice zucchini or yellow squash into rounds or half-moons and sauté them with the garlic and mushrooms. Zucchini and squash add a subtle sweetness and extra texture to the pasta.
6. Asparagus: Trim and chop asparagus spears into bite-sized pieces, then blanch or sauté them until tender-crisp. Asparagus adds a delicate flavor and a boost of fiber to the dish.
7. Kale: Massage chopped kale leaves with a bit of olive oil and salt, then add them to the skillet when sautéing the garlic and mushrooms. Kale is hearty and nutritious, adding a dose of vitamins and minerals to the pasta.

Vegetarian Small Shell Pasta Recipe

This vegetarian small shell creamy pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying and healthy meal that bursts wholesome flavors! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy evenings at home, this dish combines tender pasta shells with a luscious cheese sauce made from creamy ricotta cheese, tangy Parmesan, and garlic-infused mushrooms. Enhanced with vibrant lemon juice and sweet peas, each bite is sure to please. I think you have found one of your new favorite dishes!

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 6 people

Ingredients

  

• 16 ounces small shell pasta
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 4 ounces mushrooms sliced
• ½ lemon juiced
• 1.5 cups ricotta cheese
• ½ cup parmesan cheese
• fresh parsley chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the shells and cook according to the directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
• Meanwhile, cook the frozen peas according to the package directions.
• Heat the olive oil in a large pot or large skillet.
• Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the lemon juice, ricotta cheese and parmesan cheese. Then add the pasta.
• Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and create the cream sauce. If it is too dry, add more pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
• Taste and season with salt and pepper.
• Top servings with fresh parsley.

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