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Minty Peas and Onions

Minty Peas and Onions
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Minty Peas and Onions is a fresh, vibrant side dish that combines naturally sweet peas and tender onions with a refreshing hint of mint. Quick and easy to prepare, this colorful dish offers a perfect balance of bright, herbal, and sweet flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment for spring and summer meals or any time you want a light and flavorful side.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh shelled green peas
  • 1 medium sweet onion (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla), thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peas and Onions: Blanch the fresh shelled peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Meanwhile, thinly slice the sweet onion so it stays crisp and slightly sweet when mixed later.
  2. Sauté the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent but not browned. This enhances their natural sweetness while maintaining a gentle crunch.
  3. Combine and Season: In a mixing bowl, combine the blanched peas and sautéed onions. Add the finely chopped fresh mint leaves, drizzle lemon juice over the mixture, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to evenly coat and blend the flavors.
  4. Serve or Chill: Enjoy Minty Peas and Onions immediately as a warm side dish, or chill it for a refreshing salad-style preparation. Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves, lemon zest curls, or a dash of cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh peas and mint whenever possible to maximize flavor and vibrant color.
  • Blanch peas just until tender to keep their sweet snap and prevent mushiness.
  • Keep onion slices thin to avoid overpowering the delicate mint and peas.
  • Use medium heat when sautéing onions to soften without browning, preserving the sweet flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of mint according to personal preference for a stronger or milder mint aroma.
  • Minty Peas and Onions can be served warm or chilled; both ways are delicious.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors deepen after resting.
  • For reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain brightness and texture.
  • Frozen peas can be used as a convenient substitute, though fresh peas taste best.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: minty peas, peas and onions, fresh side dish, vegan side, gluten free, spring recipe, summer side dish

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/minty-peas-and-onions/