| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 558 | 20g | 6g | 80g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 11g | 25g | 1.2g |
Every so often, you encounter a dish that captures the essence of health and flavor combined in such a harmonious manner, it leaves an unforgettable mark on your culinary journey. This is how I feel about the Pigeon Pea Pasta. Shaped by my upbringing in picturesque Montana, I’ve always strived to integrate distinct flavors and cultural echoes in my cooking, and this recipe exemplifies this passion.
A Soothing Blend of Flavors
Now, let’s talk about why this Pigeon Pea Pasta enchants me. It marries the hearty, earthy notes of pigeon peas with piquant aromatics like onions and garlic. Red and green bell peppers harmonize with cherry tomatoes, injecting a vibrant crunch, while the white wine and stock create an umami-rich backdrop that elevates all other ingredients. This pasta dish is topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, transforming a simple weekday dinner into an indulgent feast.
Health Packed into Each Bite
But the allure of this dish lies not just in its flavors. Pigeon peas, a staple in many cultures across the world, are packed with several healthy attributes. They’re an excellent source of protein and dietary fiber, playing an indispensable role in a balanced diet. Plus, the colorful array of vegetables in the dish provides a multitude of essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall wellness.
Staying true to my love of blending flavors, this dish reminds me of a traditional pasta primavera, given its similar generous use of varied vegetables. It’s a fantastic standalone dish, but if you’re looking for a pair, a light salad with a citrusy vinaigrette or a pan-seared protein would be perfect companions.
As a twist to my usual bison burgers and venison steaks, the Pigeon Pea Pasta brings a splash of warmth and comfort to the table. There’s something uniquely satisfying about creating a dish that not only affords immense pleasure to the palate but also nourishes your health. I hope you’ll fall in love with it just as much as I have.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups pigeon peas, soaked overnight
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Begin by soaking your pigeon peas overnight. This softens the peas and reduces their cooking time.
Step Two
Boil water in a large pot and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the water and set the pasta aside.
Step Three
While your pasta is cooking, pour your olive oil into a deep pan and place on medium heat. Once warm, add your finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic cloves. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Step Four
Add your diced red and green bell peppers to the pan and continue sautéing for about five minutes, or until the peppers soften.
Step Five
Add your halved cherry tomatoes, soaked pigeon peas, chicken or vegetable stock, and white wine to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pigeon peas are cooked. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step Six
Once the pigeon peas are cooked, add your cooked pasta to the pan and toss well to combine. Allow the pasta to cook for a few minutes in the sauce to absorb its flavor.
Step Seven
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and fresh parsley to the pan. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts and coats the pasta and pigeon peas. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Step Eight
Serve your pigeon pea pasta while hot. Enjoy with additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
