peas with pearl onions recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best peas with pearl onions recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: peas with pearl onions. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m always happy to whip it up for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

The combination of sweet, tender peas and the pungency of pearl onions is a match made in heaven. I love that this recipe is also incredibly versatile – it can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a main course if you add some protein like chicken or salmon.

The key to this recipe is using fresh, high-quality ingredients – nothing beats the flavor of fresh peas and onions. And don’t even get me started on the health benefits of this dish – it’s packed with vitamins and minerals from the peas and onions, making it a guilt-free option for anyone looking to eat healthier.

My kids adore this recipe, and it’s often requested at family gatherings. I’ve even served it at potlucks and gotten rave reviews from everyone who tries it.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Peas with Pearl Onions

4.7 from 1148 votes

A classic side dish of sweet peas and tender pearl onions in a creamy butter sauce. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for holiday dinners or a quick weeknight accompaniment.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups frozen peas
1 cup frozen pearl onions
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
2Add the frozen peas and pearl onions, then cook for 3 minutes until the peas are bright green and the onions are tender.
3Drain the vegetables in a colander and set them aside.
4In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste and turns light golden.
6Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
7Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then cook for 2 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
9Add the drained peas and pearl onions, then cook for 2 minutes, stirring gently, until everything is heated through and the sauce is smooth.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat.
11Transfer the peas and onions to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
12Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan margarine, use vegetable broth, and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. Fresh peas and pearl onions can be used instead of frozen; blanch them for 2 to 3 minutes until tender.

Watch Video Of How Peas with Pearl Onions Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Simply reheat gently when you’re ready to serve, adding some crusty bread or over rice for an extra-special touch.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Peas with Pearl Onions

Q: What are pearl onions?

A: Pearl onions are small, round onions that are typically harvested when they’re immature. They have a sweeter, milder flavor than regular onions and are perfect for adding depth to dishes without overpowering them.

Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

A: While you can use frozen peas, they won’t have the same vibrant flavor and texture as fresh peas. If you do choose to use frozen peas, just thaw them according to package instructions before using.

Q: How long do I need to cook the pearl onions?

A: Cooking time will depend on the size of your pearl onions – smaller ones will cook more quickly than larger ones. Typically, you’ll want to cook them until they’re tender but still retain some crunch. You can check for doneness by cutting into one; if it’s still firm in the center, continue cooking until they’re done.

Q: Can I add garlic or other seasonings to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Garlic pairs beautifully with both peas and pearl onions – simply mince a clove or two and sauté them with the onion mixture before adding in the peas. Other seasonings like thyme or rosemary work well too; just be mindful not to overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.

Q: How do I store leftover peas with pearl onions?

A: To keep your leftovers fresh for longer, store them in an airtight container in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Reheat gently over low heat until warmed through; avoid microwaving as it can cause uneven heating.

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