There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic side dish like creamed peas. It takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where the gentle simmer of a pot on the stove filled the air with warm, inviting aromas that promised a delicious meal. My mom would always serve it alongside our family dinners, and it felt like a big warm hug on a plate. This dish is simple yet so delightful, and I just love how creamy and flavorful it is!
If you’re looking for something that’s quick, nourishing, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters, then my Easy Creamed Peas recipe is just what you need. It’s a dish that blends so beautifully with almost any main course, and trust me, it’s about to become a family favorite in your house too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Budget-friendly, using just a few simple ingredients.
- Comforting flavors that will remind you of home-cooked meals.
- Customizable – add your favorite herbs or spices and make it your own!
- A great way to get some veggies onto your plate, all while tasting fantastic.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas (no need to thaw!)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup milk (you can use low-fat or dairy-free alternatives)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic adds more punch!)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or mint for an herbal twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! I promise this will be the easiest thing you make all week. Follow these simple steps:
- Heat the Pan: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it sizzle just a bit, but watch that it doesn’t brown. The key is a nice, gentle warmth to start developing those flavors!
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter, stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula. You want it to become a smooth paste – this is called a roux. Cook it for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. It should look golden and fragrant.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. You’re aiming for a creamy consistency – think of it like a cozy blanket for those peas!
- In with the Peas: Now it’s time to add the frozen peas. Stir them in gently, coating them with that lovely cream sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through. You’ll see them become a vibrant green!
- Season it Up: Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you’re using dried herbs, now’s the time to toss those in, too! Stir to combine and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once everything is warmed and well-mixed, take a taste. Feel that smooth, creamy texture and heavenly flavor – you’re ready to serve! Transfer to your favorite serving dish and get ready for compliments!
Pro Tips & Variations
Now, let’s have a little fun with this dish! Here are some of my favorite twists to take your Easy Creamed Peas to the next level:
- Spice it Up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a touch of heat and depth.
- Herb it Up: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill work wonders here. Just chop them up and sprinkle on top right before serving!
- Swap the Veggies: Feeling adventurous? Swap out peas for sweet corn or diced carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of grated cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or even feta!) just before serving for an even creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
So, how do you serve this delightful side? I love to dish it out alongside a good roast chicken or a hearty meatloaf. Imagine that creamy goodness paired with perfectly cooked meat – what a match! You might also enjoy it over a bed of fluffy rice, or even with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that sauce.
If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a light salad and a crisp glass of white wine for the adults. Honestly, this dish can elevate any meal and turn it into a cozy gathering around the table!
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! You can refrigerate any leftover creamed peas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in a saucepan on low heat. If they’ve thickened up too much, just add a splash of milk to loosen it back up – it’ll still be just as creamy and delicious!
If you want to freeze them, I recommend placing them in freezer-safe containers. They should be fine for around 2 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Simple as that!
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas will give a lovely, vibrant flavor. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer, as they need to be tender before adding them to the cream sauce.
What can I serve with creamed peas?
Creamed peas pair beautifully with roasted meats, baked fish, or even just some grilled cheese for a satisfying yet simple meal. They also work well alongside mashed potatoes or rice!
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can certainly make creamed peas ahead of time! Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve. If you want to keep them fresh, I recommend not adding any cheese until you’re about to serve.
What can I use instead of milk?
If you prefer a non-dairy option, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor!
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! You could mix in some cooked carrots, corn, or even sautéed mushrooms for a little extra flavor and color. Get creative with what you have on hand!
Conclusion
And there you have it! My Easy Creamed Peas recipe is quick, delicious, and has that comforting home-cooked feel that makes every meal a little bit better. I hope it brings you the same joy it has brought to my family. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or if you made any fun variations of your own!
Feel free to comment below to share your experiences or ask any questions. Happy cooking!
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