Potato and Pea Casserole

Potato and pea dish is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for those days when you crave comfort and good taste. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delicious combination of vegetables that will remind you of home-cooked meals surrounded by loved ones. It is a healthy, nutrient-rich option, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 700 g potatoes
- 400 g frozen peas
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 1 can (400 g) tomatoes in sauce
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 bunch of fresh dill

Preparation of potato and pea dish:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the potatoes well. Peel and cut them into uniform cubes so they cook evenly. Peel the carrots and slice them thinly. These will add a touch of sweetness to your dish.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Fill a pot with water and add salt, then place a steamer or steaming basket on top. Add the potatoes, carrots, and frozen peas. Cover with a lid and let the vegetables steam for 25-30 minutes until tender but not too soft.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a pan, heat the oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until golden and translucent. This step is essential as caramelized onion will give a delicious flavor to your sauce. Once the onion is ready, add the tomatoes in sauce, salt, hot paprika, and sweet paprika. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes.

4. Finishing the dish: Once the vegetables are ready, add them to the pan over the sauce. Gently stir to combine all the flavors. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes so the vegetables absorb the sauce's flavors.

5. Serving: Finally, add the freshly chopped dill, stirring gently. The potato and pea dish is now ready! You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or a piece of crusty bread.

Tips and useful advice:

- Variations: If you want to add an extra source of protein, you can include chicken breast. It can be steamed with the vegetables or sautéed with the onion before adding the tomatoes.
- Spices: You can experiment with different spices like oregano or basil to diversify the flavors.
- Serving: I recommend serving this dish with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for an extra creaminess.

Nutritional information:

This recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C), and minerals, with a moderate caloric intake of about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the oil used and any additional ingredients. It is perfect for a balanced diet, considering that fresh vegetables provide essential nutrients without adding too many calories.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Using fresh vegetables will give the dish excellent taste and texture.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A cold lemonade or a light white wine would be excellent alongside this meal.

This potato and pea dish recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables, offering both health and flavor. Feel free to adapt it to your taste and share the experience with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!