5 Delicious Peas in the Pod Recipes

Peas in the pod, often overlooked as simple side dish ingredients, are actually versatile and can be incorporated into a myriad of delightful dishes that can surprise even the most discerning palates. Whether you're a culinary novice or an experienced chef, these five delicious peas in the pod recipes will inspire you to elevate this humble vegetable to new culinary heights. Let's delve into the world of peas with these inventive recipes!

1. Peas in a Creamy Lemon Sauce

This dish turns peas into a luxurious experience by bathing them in a creamy lemon sauce.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh peas in the pod
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill or mint for garnish

Directions:

• Shell the peas, keeping them bright and crisp.
• In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add peas, and sauté for 2 minutes.
• Stir in the zest of half a lemon, juice from the entire lemon, and the cream.
• Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

💡 Note: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream or milk, but keep the lemon zest for the full flavor.

2. Mint and Pea Risotto

This risotto brings out the fresh flavor of peas with the aromatic touch of mint, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup peas in the pod, shelled
• ¹⁄₄ cup dry white wine
• ¹⁄₂ cup finely grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch fresh mint, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• In a saucepan, heat stock to a simmer.
• In another pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
• Add rice, stir until translucent, then deglaze with white wine.
• Ladle in warm stock one cup at a time, stirring frequently until absorbed.
• After 15 minutes, add peas and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and mint, season with salt and pepper.

This dish highlights how well peas and mint complement each other, providing a refreshing flavor.

3. Peas and Ricotta Tart

Perfect for a brunch or a light lunch, this savory tart combines the subtle sweetness of peas with the creamy texture of ricotta.

• Ingredients for the Crust:
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup butter
• ¹⁄₄ cup cold water
• Salt
• For the Filling:
• 2 cups shelled peas
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 3 eggs
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Make the crust by mixing flour, butter, and water until a dough forms. Press into a tart tin, prick with a fork, and pre-bake for 10 minutes.
• Blanch peas briefly in boiling water, then shock in ice water to retain color.
• Combine ricotta, eggs, cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Fold in peas.
• Pour into the pre-baked crust, bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.

4. Spring Vegetable Stir-Fry with Peas

This dish is all about celebrating the fresh flavors of spring vegetables, with peas playing a starring role.

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup peas in the pod, shelled
• 1 bunch asparagus, cut into pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes to taste

Directions:

• Heat oil in a wok or large pan over high heat.
• Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds.
• Add vegetables in stages, starting with asparagus, then bell pepper, squash, and peas.
• Toss with soy sauce, cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.

The quick cooking time ensures that the peas retain their vibrant green color and sweet flavor.

5. Spiced Pea Soup

Transform simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful soup with this unique recipe.

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups shelled peas
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon turmeric
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

• Sauté onion, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander, and turmeric in oil until onions are translucent.
• Add peas, cook for 2 minutes.
• Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
• Puree the soup until smooth, add cream or coconut milk, and warm through.
• Season to taste and garnish with cilantro before serving.

These five recipes showcase the versatility of peas in the pod, offering a delightful way to incorporate more greens into your diet while experimenting with flavors and textures. From creamy sauces to hearty soups, peas can transform ordinary meals into something extraordinary. Whether you're looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special, these dishes will certainly do the trick.

What are the health benefits of peas?

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Peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provide a good amount of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. They can aid in digestion, support heart health, and are beneficial for weight management due to their low calorie yet filling nature.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

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Yes, you can substitute fresh peas with frozen ones, especially if fresh peas are out of season. Just ensure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in your dishes.

How do I shell peas from the pod?

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To shell peas, snap off one end of the pod, then gently pull down along the seam to open it. Scoop or pop out the peas with your fingers.

Are there vegetarian or vegan alternatives for these recipes?

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Many of these recipes can easily be made vegetarian or vegan. Substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream, use vegetable stock instead of chicken, and opt for vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan touch.