Creamy Peas

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy peas are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. While fresh peas hold a certain charm, using frozen peas makes this recipe quick and convenient. The combination of peas and a creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that pairs well with many main courses. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also uses common ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a nutritious, tasty, and versatile side, creamy peas are the way to go!

Not only are peas packed with vitamins and minerals, they also add a burst of color to your plate. This dish brings comfort food vibes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Additionally, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules. With just a few simple steps, you can create this luscious dish that everyone will love.

How to Make Creamy Peas

Creating creamy peas is simple and doesn’t require advanced cooking techniques. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you’ll have this delicious side dish ready. Here’s how to whip up your own creamy peas at home!

Ingredients

• 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

Directions

1. Prepare the Peas: Start by boiling about a cup of water in a medium pot. Once the water is boiling, add the frozen peas. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they become bright green and tender. Afterward, drain them well and set them aside. This step enhances the peas’ flavor and texture before combining them with the cream sauce.

2. Make the Roux: In the same pot you used for the peas, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Use a whisk to stir the mixture well, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. This mixture is called a roux, and it acts as a thickening agent for your sauce.

3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring with your whisk. This is important to prevent any lumps from forming in your sauce. Keep cooking and stirring for about 3-5 minutes, or until you see the mixture start to thicken. You want a creamy consistency, which should coat the back of a spoon.

4. Season: Now it’s time to flavor your sauce! Add the salt, pepper, and sugar into the mixture. Stir well and taste to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. The sugar is a nice touch that balances the natural sweetness of the peas.

5. Combine with Peas: Gently fold the cooked peas into the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve: Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the pot from the heat. Serve your creamy peas immediately as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite main courses.

How to Serve Creamy Peas

Creamy peas are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They make a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, baked fish, or even steak. You can also pair them with vegetarian dishes, such as a hearty veggie lasagna or stuffed bell peppers. To serve, simply ladle the creamy peas into individual bowls or onto plates. You might want to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Another option is to serve them over a bed of rice or pasta. The creamy sauce pairs nicely with starches, making your meal even heartier. You can also serve the peas alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the creaminess. The contrasting textures and flavors will appeal to your taste buds.

If you’re hosting a dinner party or a holiday meal, creamy peas can elevate the table setting. Their bright green color will stand out and add to the visual appeal of your spread. Plus, they are easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your guests’ company.

How to Store Creamy Peas

If you have leftovers, no worries! Creamy peas can be stored easily for future meals. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool Down: Allow the creamy peas to cool to room temperature. This step is crucial, as placing hot food directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside your refrigerator.

2. Transfer to an Airtight Container: Use a clean, airtight container to store your creamy peas. This will help keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Creamy peas are best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and texture.

4. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the creamy peas in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of milk to revive the creamy consistency as it can thicken while stored in the fridge.

Tips to Make Creamy Peas

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your creamy peas turn out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh or Frozen Peas: While frozen peas are a convenient option, if you have access to fresh peas in season, they will offer an even better flavor. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding to the sauce.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it cook a bit longer. If it’s too thick, just add a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

• Add Cheese: For an extra creamy and cheesy flavor, consider stirring in some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese just before serving. This will add richness and make the dish even more indulgent.

• Mix in Vegetables: If you want to sneak in more veggies, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or chopped broccoli to the creamy peas.

• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices! Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like thyme or dill can enhance the flavor significantly.

Variations

You can easily adapt this creamy peas recipe to match your taste preferences or what you have on hand:

• Creamy Peas with Bacon: For a savory twist, cook a few strips of bacon until crispy, then crumble and mix with the peas. The smokiness of the bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

• Spicy Creamy Peas: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. It will add a nice kick to your creamy peas.

• Creamy Peas with Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish. The citrus flavor will balance the creaminess perfectly.

• Vegan Creamy Peas: To create a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and replace the milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk. Use a thickener like cornstarch instead of flour to keep the dish dairy-free.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
   Yes! You can use fresh peas. Just ensure to cook them until tender, similar to the frozen ones. Fresh peas might take a little less time to cook than frozen ones.

2. Can I make creamy peas ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make them ahead. Just prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop.

3. What can I serve with creamy peas?
   Creamy peas pair well with a variety of dishes. They go great with grilled meats, baked fish, and vegetarian meals like stuffed peppers or pasta dishes.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   To make creamy peas gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the roux.

5. Can I freeze creamy peas?
   Freezing is not recommended for creamy peas, as the sauce can separate upon thawing. However, if you have to freeze them, ensure to store them in an airtight container, and be prepared for a difference in texture when thawed.

Creamy peas are not just a side dish; they can bring comfort and warmth to any meal. Trust me, once you try them, you will want to make them part of your regular dinner repertoire! Whether you are cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this easy-to-make recipe will certainly please everyone at your table. Enjoy your cooking!

Creamy Peas

Print Recipe

A quick and delicious creamy peas side dish that pairs well with various main courses.

• 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 1x2x3x

• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Boil about a cup of water in a medium pot and add the frozen peas. Cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender, then drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat and add the flour, whisking to form a smooth roux for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually stir in the milk, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Add salt, pepper, and sugar, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
5. Fold the cooked peas into the creamy sauce, heating through for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve immediately alongside your favorite main dishes.

Notes

For additional flavor, consider adding cheese or sautéed vegetables.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg