Seafood with green peas and basil

Captivating seafood recipe with green peas and basil

Saturday is a special day every week, and in our menu, pasta is the star of the day. However, from time to time, we indulge in a marine delight: seafood! Even if we are far from tropical shores, this dish will bring a fresh breeze to our Transylvanian kitchen. So, get ready to explore a simple yet absolutely delicious recipe for sautéed seafood with green peas and basil, perfect for a weekend dinner!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g mixed seafood (mussels, squid, mini-shrimp)
- 300 g mix of green peas and carrots (frozen)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons of oregano flower-infused oil (homemade)
- 1 jar of cherry tomatoes in broth with basil, garlic, and chili (homemade)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt
- 2 mini peppers (red and orange), sliced
- Fresh parsley and green basil, for garnish

Recipe story

Seafood has a rich history, being a valued food source for centuries. They are often associated with festive meals but can easily be integrated into daily routines, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to regular dishes. In this recipe, seafood is combined with fresh vegetables and garden flavors, transforming into a colorful and flavorful dish.

Step by step: Cooking seafood

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thawing the seafood. Make sure to wash them well under cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. Also, chop the vegetables and prepare the infused oil. If you don't have oregano flower oil, you can use plain olive oil, but the flavors will be more intense with the infused one.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the infused oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and releases a pleasant aroma. This step is important as the onion and garlic will form the base of the dish's flavor.

3. Adding frozen vegetables: Add the frozen peas and carrot mix to the skillet. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help the vegetables soften slightly while retaining their vibrant color.

4. Including the seafood: Now it's time to add the seafood to the skillet. Mix well and let them cook for 3-5 minutes. You'll notice that the mini-shrimp turn pink, a sign that they are ready.

5. Finishing with tomatoes and spices: Add the cherry tomatoes in broth and the sliced peppers. Sprinkle Himalayan salt and continue cooking for a few more minutes until all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors meld. Adjust the salt level to taste.

6. Serving the dish: Once the dish is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and add the chopped fresh basil. This will add a note of freshness and aroma to the dish. Serve the seafood with green peas alongside a side of basmati rice or pasta to make the meal more substantial.

Practical tips

- Variability: You can experiment with different types of seafood, such as mussels or squid cut into rings. Each type will offer a different texture and taste.
- Fresh vegetables: In the summer season, use fresh peas and carrots. They will have a more intense flavor and improve the dish's texture.
- Flavors: If you like to add a bit of spice, you can include some chili flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen seafood?: Yes, frozen seafood is very convenient and can be successfully used. Make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- What side dish pairs best?: Basmati rice or pasta are excellent side dishes, but you can also try a fresh spring salad for a contrast of textures.
- What are the nutritional benefits of seafood?: They are rich in protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

This seafood recipe with green peas and basil is a wonderful choice for a quick and tasty dinner. It is easy to prepare, full of flavors and colors, and will surely impress your loved ones. Moreover, you can easily adapt it based on the available ingredients or your preferences. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Bon appétit!