Step 1

Add the olive oil to a medium skillet over medium-low heat. When warm, add the garlic and onion, if using. Stir and cook for 2 minutes or until fragrant.

Step 2

Add the spinach and stir to wilt.

Step 3

When wilted, turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 4

(If you are using the option with the peas, add them to the pan before you cover it so they thaw as the pan sits.)

Step 5

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 6

Add the spinach mixture, the ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoon of the pasta cooking water, and the Parmesan to a blender. Blend very smooth, adding a little more water if needed to blend well.

Step 7

Add as much sauce as you like to the cooked pasta and season to taste with salt and pepper. (You may have a little sauce left over after tossing with the cooked pasta to coat, depending on how saucy you want it. You can save that for another meal.) Serve with additional Parmesan cheese and optional toppings, if desired.