Introduction:
Looking for a flavorful and comforting side dish to accompany your favorite meals? Look no further than our Easy Creamed Peas recipe! Bursting with the fresh flavor of tender peas enveloped in a creamy sauce, this dish is a delightful addition to any table. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as part of a holiday feast, our Creamed Peas are sure to impress. Join us as we share this easy-to-make recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces fresh pearl onions
- 4 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 1/2 cups frozen peas
- kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 pinches ground nutmeg optional
- 1-2 splashes heavy cream optional
Instructions:
- Slice off the root ends of the pearl onions and drop them into boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Pinch the stem end, and the peeled pearl onion will pop out. Set them aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and continue whisking until the mixture is a light golden brown. Slowly whisk in milk and continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly; 2-3 minutes.
- Add peas and pearl onions (that were set aside). Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the peas are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a little nutmeg and a splash of cream.
- Notes
- If you like your creamed peas thicker, increase the butter and flour by 1 tablespoon.
- For additional flavor, add a little bit of garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme leaves, or even a pinch of nutmeg.
- For a little added sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- For a change of pace, add 1 cup of cooked small sliced Yukon Gold Potatoes, 1/4 cup of chopped cooked crispy bacon, or 1/2 cup of finely diced cooked carrots.
- You can use canned peas but drain them well and almost completely thicken the sauce before adding them, as they are fully cooked and only need warming.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power or on the stovetop.
Serving Tips:
- Pair with Main Dishes: Serve Creamed Peas as a side dish alongside your favorite main courses such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked fish, or meatloaf. The creamy texture and vibrant flavor of the peas complement a wide range of entrees.
- Serve with Mashed Potatoes: Creamed Peas pair exceptionally well with mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying combination. Serve them side by side for a classic and hearty meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: Sprinkle the Creamed Peas with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving for an added pop of color and visual appeal. This simple garnish enhances the presentation of the dish and adds a touch of freshness.
- Use as a Topping: Creamed Peas can also be used as a delicious topping for baked potatoes, biscuits, or toast. Spread the creamy peas over the base and enjoy as a tasty and filling snack or light meal.
- Incorporate into Casseroles: Use Creamed Peas as an ingredient in casseroles or hot dishes such as chicken pot pie, shepherd’s pie, or pasta bakes. Their creamy texture and flavor add depth and richness to these classic comfort foods.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamed Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the peas to cool completely before transferring them to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
- Reheating: Reheat the Creamed Peas on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in microwave-safe containers. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk or broth if the peas have thickened too much during storage.
- Freezing: While Creamed Peas can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled Creamed Peas to freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Portion Control: Consider portioning out leftover Creamed Peas into individual servings before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only the amount you need, reducing food waste and ensuring that leftovers are used efficiently.
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas for Creamed Peas?
- Yes, you can use fresh peas instead of frozen peas for Creamed Peas. Simply blanch the fresh peas in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until they are tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Is it possible to make Creamed Peas ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Creamed Peas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Can I make Creamed Peas dairy-free or vegan?
- Yes, you can make dairy-free or vegan Creamed Peas by using plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter and non-dairy milk (such as almond milk or coconut milk) in place of butter and dairy milk. Adjust the seasonings to taste accordingly.
- Are Creamed Peas gluten-free?
- Yes, Creamed Peas are naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check the labels of any seasonings or thickening agents used in the recipe to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
- Can I customize the seasonings in Creamed Peas?
- Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings in Creamed Peas according to your taste preferences. You can add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect combination.
Conclusion:
With its creamy texture and vibrant flavor, our Easy Creamed Peas recipe is a fantastic way to add a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish for weeknight dinners or a special addition to holiday feasts, this simple recipe is sure to please. Give it a try today and treat your taste buds to the deliciousness of Creamed Peas!