Plate of deliciously creamy peas served as a dinner side dish

Deliciously Creamy Peas Recipe to Transform Your Dinner!

ByJOHN
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Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side dish, this creamy peas recipe is it. It’s easy to make and brings a pop of color and flavor to your dinner table. The sweetness of the peas combined with the creamy sauce makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving this alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even as part of a vegetarian meal, it will surely impress.

Not only is this dish tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Peas are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them an excellent choice for your diet. Plus, they cook quickly, making this recipe a perfect option for busy weeknights.

Whether you have a fondness for frozen peas or you’re looking to try something new, this creamy peas recipe is a great choice. It’s a wonderful way to transform a simple ingredient into something extraordinary.

How to Make Deliciously Creamy Peas

Making this creamy peas recipe is straightforward. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated steps. Just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills are all you need. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Frozen peas (Choose a quality brand for sweet, flavorful results.)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (Feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.)
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (Try using cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative.)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste based on dietary preference.)
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper (Consider a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.)
  • 1 cup Whole milk (Swap with half-and-half for extra richness.)
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar (Can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet dish.)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Peas: Start by boiling about a cup of water in a medium-sized pot. Once it starts boiling, add the frozen peas. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes or until they are bright green and tender. Drain the peas and set them aside.

  2. Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over it. Stir well to combine the flour and butter, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes. This mixture is called a roux and will help thicken your creamy sauce.

  3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to stir. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. If you find the sauce too thick, feel free to add a little more milk.

  4. Season: Once your mixture has thickened, season it with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Adjust these seasonings to fit your taste.

  5. Combine with Peas: Gently fold the cooked peas into the creamy sauce. Make sure they are well-coated. Allow the peas to heat through, about another minute or two.

  6. Serve: Once everything is mixed well and hot, remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy the deliciously creamy peas alongside your favorite main dishes!

How to Serve Deliciously Creamy Peas

Serving creamy peas is quite simple. You can dish them out alongside proteins like grilled chicken, steak, or baked fish. They also pair well with vegetarian options like quinoa or stuffed bell peppers. For an appealing presentation, you might consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill.

Creamy peas can be served hot, offering a wonderful contrast to a cold salad or refreshing side. If you are serving this dish at a dinner party, you could place the creamy peas in a beautiful serving bowl for an elegant touch. It’s not only tasty but adds a charming element to your dining experience.

How to Store Deliciously Creamy Peas

If you have any leftovers or want to make this dish in advance, storing creamy peas is very easy. Let the peas cool down to room temperature first. Once cooled, transfer them into an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you would like to keep the creamy peas longer, you can freeze them. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, place the peas in a freezer-safe container and use them within 2-3 months for the best quality.

When ready to enjoy your frozen creamy peas, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can reheat them directly from the freezer on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of milk to help revive the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Deliciously Creamy Peas

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always select the best quality ingredients you can find. Fresh, good-quality frozen peas can make a significant difference in taste.

  2. Adjust the Thickness: If you find your sauce too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk while it’s on the heat to reach your desired consistency.

  3. Add Flavor Variations: Consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions to the butter before adding the flour for extra flavor. You can also mix in cheese for a richer dish.

  4. For Color: To add extra color and nutrition, consider mixing in some corn or diced carrots. It not only enhances the appearance but adds a delightful sweetness.

  5. Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other spices beyond salt and pepper. Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Variation

This creamy peas recipe lends itself well to variations. Here are a few ideas you can try:

  • Cheesy Creamy Peas: Stir in a cup of grated cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) once you’ve thickened the milk mixture to create a cheesy version.
  • Herbed Creamy Peas: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like mint, basil, or thyme right before serving for a burst of freshness.
  • Spicy Creamy Peas: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?
Yes, you can use fresh peas. Just cook them in boiling water for a shorter time until tender, usually about 2-3 minutes before following the rest of the recipe.

2. What can I serve with creamy peas?
Creamy peas pair well with a variety of dishes like grilled meats, baked chicken, fish, or even pasta. They serve as a delightful side dish to almost any main meal.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and milk with almond or soy milk, and omit sugar if necessary.

4. How can I make the peas sweeter?
If you prefer sweeter peas, you can add a little more sugar to the recipe. Additionally, using fresh peas instead of frozen can bring out a sweeter flavor naturally.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure you have a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume and adjust cooking times as necessary.

By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll find that making creamy peas is not only manageable but also enjoyable. They can elevate any meal with their vibrant color and comforting flavors. Try this recipe today and transform your dinner into something special with these deliciously creamy peas!

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Deliciously Creamy Peas

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This creamy peas recipe is a simple yet delightful side dish that adds color and flavor to any meal, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

  • Author: hbibamine1980
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups Frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 cup Whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar

Instructions

  1. Boil about a cup of water in a medium pot. Add the frozen peas and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and sugar. Adjust to taste.
  5. Gently fold in the cooked peas until well-coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and serve immediately alongside your favorite main dishes.

Notes

Consider adding minced garlic or cheese for extra flavor, and substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter dish.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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