Creamy Garden Peas Recipe
Introduction
This Creamy Garden Peas recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a classic vegetable side dish. With a smooth, flavorful sauce, it’s perfect for adding a touch of comfort to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the frozen peas according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Step 3: Stir the flour, salt, and pepper into the melted butter until the mixture forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Step 4: Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps, then add the sugar.
- Step 5: Continue stirring and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Add the cooked peas to the sauce, warm through, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of fresh mint or a small minced shallot to the sauce before adding the milk.
- You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer sauce.
- Use fresh peas in season for a brighter, sweeter taste.
Storage
Store leftover creamy peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas without cooking them first?
It’s best to cook the frozen peas according to the package directions before combining with the sauce to ensure they’re tender and heated through.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
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Creamy Garden Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Garden Peas is a simple and comforting side dish featuring tender frozen peas cooked to perfection and enveloped in a smooth, lightly seasoned creamy sauce. This quick recipe combines the sweetness of peas with a homemade roux-based cream sauce enriched with butter and whole milk, resulting in a luscious and satisfying vegetable side perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook Peas: Follow the package instructions to cook the frozen peas until tender. Once cooked, drain the water from the peas and set them aside.
- Melt Butter: Warm a small saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Make Roux: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture forms a smooth paste, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Milk And Sugar: Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Add the sugar and continue to stir.
- Thicken Sauce: Continue cooking and stirring the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine Peas And Sauce: Add the drained peas to the creamy sauce, stir gently to coat all the peas evenly, heat everything through, then serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or cream.
- Adjust seasoning to taste by adding more salt or pepper if desired.
- Fresh or frozen peas can be used; if using fresh peas, cooking times may vary slightly.
- This recipe is best served immediately but can be gently reheated with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy peas, garden peas recipe, easy side dish, frozen peas, creamy vegetable side
