1 lb pasta (preferably something short, like radiatore or penne rigate)
1/2 red onion, chopped
5 T olive oil
2 T sugar
1 scant T kosher salt
2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup low-salt vegetable or chicken broth
1/4 cup olive oil
1 T butter
pepper, to taste
freshly grated parmesan for sprinkling