Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Green Peas with Mint recipe is the perfect answer. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your guests with its surprisingly sophisticated taste. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier or more rewarding than this!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh or frozen green peas (fresh peas will require slightly longer cooking time)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing and preparing your fresh peas if using fresh ones. If using frozen, no need to thaw them beforehand. Mince the shallot and garlic, and chop the mint leaves.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook for about 1 minute, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Cook the Peas: Add the peas to the saucepan and cook for 3-5 minutes (fresh peas may take a bit longer), stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. If using frozen peas, they'll cook faster.
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Simmer and Season: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the peas to absorb some of the liquid. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in the Mint: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped mint leaves. The heat from the peas will gently wilt the mint and release its fresh aroma. If desired, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra zing.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Green Peas with Mint immediately as a delicious side dish to roasted chicken, grilled fish, or any other protein of your choice. This simple dish also works wonderfully alongside creamy mashed potatoes or rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the peas: Overcooked peas will become mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Aim for tender-crisp peas.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh peas offer a slightly sweeter flavor, frozen peas are equally delicious and much more convenient.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Peas: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herby Peas: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, chives, or dill.
- Creamy Peas: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and nutritious side dish. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving would be around:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Protein: Approximately 3-5 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4 grams
This easy recipe makes a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes. It's a versatile side dish that's perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more formal gatherings. Enjoy!