Peas with vegetables and mint

Peas with vegetables and mint: a refreshing recipe

In a world full of standardized recipes, there are moments when a simple combination of ingredients can transform an ordinary dish into an exceptional culinary experience. Today, I will guide you step by step through my favorite recipe for peas with vegetables and mint, a dish that blends tradition with a touch of innovation. This recipe will bring a fresh air to your kitchen, and the vibrant taste of mint will provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the peas.

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

Your ingredients for a delicious meal

- 1000 g peas (preferably 2 large cans of Bonduelle)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 200 mL crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon homemade spicy ketchup
- 1 pinch of chili (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint
- 4-5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste

Practical tip: Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for a more intense flavor. For example, you can replace canned peas with fresh peas if you can find them.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion. This will form the base of your flavor. Then, slice the carrot and parsnip thinly, and chop the bell pepper into small cubes. These vegetables will add texture and flavor to your dish.

2. Washing the peas: Rinse the peas under cold running water and let them drain. This step is essential to remove excess salt and preservatives from the canned peas, providing a cleaner taste to your dish.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet (a wok is ideal), add 4-5 tablespoons of sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the carrot and parsnip, letting them soften for 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the crushed tomatoes and a small cup of water. These will add moisture and a rich flavor to your dish. Let everything simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked and the flavors have melded.

5. Including the peas and bell peppers: Now it’s time to add the peas and bell pepper. Simmer everything over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the peas become tender, about 5-10 minutes.

6. Finishing the dish: Once all the vegetables are cooked, turn off the heat and add the dried mint. The fresh aroma of mint will provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the peas and will transform this dish into a delicacy.

Serving and variations

You can serve this peas with vegetables and mint as a main dish or as a side. A wonderful idea is to accompany it with a portion of basmati rice or with fresh homemade bread. If you want to add more flavor, top it with a few slices of fresh lemon for a hint of acidity that will balance the sweetness of the vegetables.

Tips and personal suggestions

If you are a spice lover, feel free to add some herbs like basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment by adding some black olives for an interesting contrast.

Nutritional information

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them perfect for a balanced diet. They also contain vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and magnesium. A serving of this dish has about 200 calories, making it an excellent choice for a light and nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas are an excellent alternative. Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the dish.

2. How can I store leftovers?
I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 3 days.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, eggplant, or even potatoes to vary the texture and flavor of the dish.

This peas with vegetables and mint recipe is perfect for warm summer days or for a comforting lunch on cooler days. The fresh taste of mint combined with the sweetness of the peas will make you come back to this recipe again and again. Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to savor every bite!