Orecchiette with Buttermilk, Peas, and Pistachios

Ingredients for Orecchiette with Buttermilk, Peas, and Pistachios

• 30g pistachios

• 350g orecchiette

• Kosher salt

• 350g peas (such as shelled fresh or frozen English and/or halved sugar snap)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• 2 medium leeks, white and pale green parts only, cut in half lengthwise, thinly sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 small bunch mint, divided

• 3/4 cup buttermilk

• 90g Parmesan, finely grated, plus more for serving

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.

Preheat oven to 177°C. Toast pistachios on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, 5–8 minutes. Let cool, then coarsely crush with a measuring cup or glass.

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water 6 minutes, then add peas and cook until pasta is al dente, about 2 minutes more.

Meanwhile, heat butter and 2 tablespoons oil in a medium heavy pot over medium. Cook leeks, garlic, red pepper flakes, and 3 mint sprigs, stirring occasionally, until leeks are soft but not browned, 6–8 minutes; season with salt. Add buttermilk; bring to a simmer. Pluck out mint; discard.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer pasta and peas to leek mixture. Add 90g Parmesan; cook, stirring vigorously and adding a little pasta water if needed, until sauce is creamy and coats pasta, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat; add lemon juice. Pull leaves from remaining mint sprigs, tear into pasta, and toss. Divide pasta among bowls. Top with pistachios and Parmesan; drizzle with oil.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.