Pea dish

Pea and Vegetable Dish Recipe: A Simple Delight for Fasting Days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t remember the warm summer days when the abundance of fresh vegetables delighted our senses? In this spirit, I invite you to discover a simple and delicious pea dish recipe, perfect for fasting days or even for a light dinner, full of nutrients. This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen peas with the flavors of fresh vegetables, offering you a comforting and healthy dish.

The history of pea dishes is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It has been an important source of food over time, not only due to its pleasant taste but also because of its high nutritional value. Peas are rich in protein, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Ingredients

- 750 g frozen peas
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 onions (one white and one red)
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 peppercorns
- 200 ml tomato juice or puree
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh dill, chopped (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onions. Chop the white and red onions into small cubes to add to the vegetable mix. Garlic can be optional but adds a special flavor; you can peel and slice it thinly or chop it finely, depending on your preference.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the carrot and cut it into small cubes. The red bell pepper and yellow bell pepper should also be chopped into small pieces. You can grate some of the carrot on a large grater, so it melts faster and binds the dish, avoiding the need for flour.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become transparent. Then, add the carrot, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes. You will notice how the flavors intensify.

4. Adding the peas: Once the vegetables are sautéed and well combined, add the frozen peas and mix everything together. This is the moment to add the bay leaves and peppercorns; they will add a subtle yet intense aroma to your dish.

5. Boiling: Fill the pot with water, ensuring it covers the ingredients by about an inch. Add salt to taste and let everything boil. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the temperature to medium and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

6. Finalizing the dish: About 5-10 minutes before turning off the heat, add the tomato juice or puree and the chopped dill. This will provide a fresh taste and vibrant color to your dish. Stir gently and let the flavors combine.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, you can serve it warm alongside a slice of fresh bread to complete this simple yet tasty meal. A personal recommendation is to serve the pea dish with a summer salad filled with fresh vegetables for a complete culinary experience.

Practical Tips

- Frozen peas: They are an excellent choice as they retain most of their nutrients and flavor. While using fresh peas is an option, frozen ones are just as tasty and more accessible.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or potatoes to make the dish even heartier. Additionally, you can experiment with spices by adding a teaspoon of paprika or cumin for a more exotic taste.
- Recommended drinks: A fresh lemonade or a cold herbal tea will pair wonderfully with this dish, providing a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, fresh peas are an excellent option. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, but the taste will be more intense.

2. How can I store the pea dish?
You can store the pea dish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe is completely vegan, perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

4. What other recipes can I make with peas?
Peas are versatile: you can make pea soup, pea salads, or even pea puree.

This simple pea dish recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but will also energize you, thanks to the nutrients from the vegetables. So, don’t hesitate to try it on fasting days or whenever you crave a healthy and delicious dish. Enjoy your meal!