Sweet and bright, young peas hardly need company - they’re delicious on their own. But if you have the time, desire, and a handful of spring–summer peas, here are five light dishes where peas take center stage.
1. Creamed Peas with Lemon Zest
Lightly simmer peas in cream, season with salt, and finish with butter and lemon zest.
2. Summer Risotto with Peas and Goat Cheese
My personal favorite. Creamy, delicate, and full of flavor. (Recipe at the link.)
3. Morning Frittata with Peas
Sauté peas in butter, season with salt, add fresh herbs to taste, then pour over beaten eggs. Nothing could be easier.
4. Quick Pasta with Peas and Bacon
Cook spaghetti 2 minutes less than the package suggests. In a pan, heat olive oil and brown 1–2 small chili peppers, then discard them. In the spicy oil, fry diced bacon for 1–2 minutes, add peas, then toss with the pasta. Top with grated Parmesan to taste.
5. Bruschetta with Peas
Toast bread in a dry pan and rub with garlic. In a mortar, mash fresh peas with soft sheep’s cheese, drizzle with lemon juice, and spread over the crisp toast.
1. Creamed Peas with Lemon Zest
Lightly simmer peas in cream, season with salt, and finish with butter and lemon zest.
2. Summer Risotto with Peas and Goat Cheese
My personal favorite. Creamy, delicate, and full of flavor. (Recipe at the link.)
3. Morning Frittata with Peas
Sauté peas in butter, season with salt, add fresh herbs to taste, then pour over beaten eggs. Nothing could be easier.
4. Quick Pasta with Peas and Bacon
Cook spaghetti 2 minutes less than the package suggests. In a pan, heat olive oil and brown 1–2 small chili peppers, then discard them. In the spicy oil, fry diced bacon for 1–2 minutes, add peas, then toss with the pasta. Top with grated Parmesan to taste.
5. Bruschetta with Peas
Toast bread in a dry pan and rub with garlic. In a mortar, mash fresh peas with soft sheep’s cheese, drizzle with lemon juice, and spread over the crisp toast.
