Craving that perfect comfort food that feels like a warm hug? Creamed peas are the ultimate cozy side dish that transforms simple meals into something special. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners or elegant holiday sides, these creamy creations deliver comfort in every bite. Get ready to discover 18 irresistible recipes that will make this humble vegetable the star of your table!
Classic Creamed Peas with Butter and Fresh Herbs
Meticulously crafted and deeply comforting, this timeless preparation transforms humble peas into an elegant side dish worthy of any occasion. The gentle creaminess envelops each vibrant pea, while fresh herbs provide a fragrant counterpoint to the rich butter base. It’s a celebration of simplicity, where quality ingredients shine in perfect harmony.
Ingredients
– 4 tablespoons high-quality unsalted butter
– 2 cups fresh shelled peas or frozen petite peas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream with 36% milkfat
– 1/4 cup finely minced fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Instructions
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of high-quality unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until it foams gently, about 2 minutes.
2. Add 2 cups of fresh shelled peas to the melted butter and stir to coat each pea thoroughly.
3. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, until the cream has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Stir in 1/4 cup of finely minced fresh chives and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh tarragon leaves until evenly distributed.
6. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground white pepper, stirring to incorporate completely.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Velvety and luxurious in texture, these creamed peas offer a delicate balance between the natural sweetness of the peas and the herbaceous notes of tarragon and chives. Serve them alongside roasted chicken or spooned over crispy toast points for contrasting textures that elevate this classic preparation to new heights.
Garlic Parmesan Creamed Peas
Meticulously crafted yet wonderfully approachable, this Garlic Parmesan Creamed Peas recipe transforms humble garden peas into an elegant side dish worthy of any special occasion. The combination of sweet peas enveloped in a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate your dinner table. With just a few quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can achieve restaurant-worthy results in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
– 4 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 16 ounces frozen petite peas
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted European-style butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add 4 cloves of minced fresh garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, approximately 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the garlic butter mixture and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a smooth roux, which will thicken your sauce beautifully.
4. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming in your sauce.
5. Continue cooking the cream mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in 16 ounces of frozen petite peas directly into the cream sauce, allowing them to thaw and heat through for 4-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
7. Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the pea mixture, stirring gently until the cheese melts completely into the sauce.
8. Season the creamed peas with 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and let the creamed peas rest for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Perfectly creamy with a delightful pop of sweetness from the peas, this dish offers a luxurious texture that complements both casual weeknight dinners and formal holiday meals. The garlic and Parmesan create a savory depth that makes these creamed peas particularly wonderful when served alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak, where the rich sauce can mingle beautifully with pan juices.
Creamed Peas with Crispy Bacon Bits
Dazzling in its simplicity yet profound in flavor, this classic comfort dish transforms humble ingredients into an elegant side worthy of any holiday table or weeknight supper. Delicate sweet peas bathed in a velvety cream sauce find perfect contrast with the smoky crunch of bacon, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated.
Ingredients
– 8 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
– 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk, warmed to room temperature
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 4 cups frozen petite sweet peas, thawed
– ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
1. Place the chopped applewood smoked bacon in a cold 12-inch cast-iron skillet and cook over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the bacon becomes deeply browned and crispy.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the hot bacon fat and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the minced fresh garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
5. Add the unsalted European-style butter to the skillet and let it melt completely, about 1 minute.
6. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter-onion mixture and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a pale golden roux.
7. Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk in three additions, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next to prevent lumps.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
9. Gently fold in the thawed petite sweet peas and cook for 2 minutes until heated through but still bright green.
10. Season with freshly grated nutmeg, Diamond Crystal kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper, stirring to combine.
11. Remove from heat and stir in half of the crispy bacon bits and all of the chopped fresh chives.
The silky cream sauce clings beautifully to each sweet pea, while the remaining crispy bacon bits scattered over the top provide satisfying textural contrast. Serve this elegant side alongside roasted chicken or spooned over buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that balances richness with bright, fresh flavors.
Slow-Cooker Creamed Peas with Thyme
Heralding the arrival of cozy evenings, this elegant preparation transforms humble peas into a luxurious side dish that marries creamy indulgence with earthy sophistication. The gentle embrace of the slow cooker coaxes out delicate flavors while filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fresh thyme and sweet peas. Perfect for both holiday gatherings and weeknight dinners, this dish elevates simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds frozen sweet petite peas
– 1 cup heavy cream, rich and velvety
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and high-quality
– 1/4 cup finely minced shallots, aromatic and translucent
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, fragrant and stripped from stems
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, fine and evenly distributing
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, coarsely cracked
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, warm and aromatic
Instructions
1. Place 2 pounds frozen sweet petite peas directly into a 4-quart slow cooker without thawing.
2. Add 1/4 cup finely minced shallots, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg to the peas.
3. Pour 1 cup rich and velvety heavy cream evenly over the pea mixture.
4. Dot the surface with 4 tablespoons cold, high-quality unsalted butter cut into small pieces.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW heat setting for exactly 3 hours, until peas are tender but still bright green.
6. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly after 1.5 hours of cooking to ensure even cream distribution and prevent sticking.
7. Check for doneness at the 3-hour mark by tasting one pea—it should be tender but not mushy, with the cream slightly thickened.
8. Let the creamed peas rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken further.
Now, this elegant side dish presents with peas that maintain their structural integrity while bathing in a velvety, herb-infused cream sauce. The subtle sweetness of the peas beautifully contrasts with the earthy thyme and warm nutmeg notes, creating layers of flavor that deepen as they rest. Consider serving alongside roasted chicken or as an unexpected topping for crispy crostini, where the creamy texture provides a luxurious counterpoint to crunchy bread.
Creamed Peas and Pearl Onions
Just when you thought comfort food couldn’t get more refined, this timeless side dish arrives to elevate your holiday table. Creamed peas and pearl onions offer a delicate balance of sweet and savory, enveloped in a velvety sauce that whispers of nostalgia while speaking the language of modern elegance.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen petite peas
- 1 cup frozen pearl onions
- 3 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, gently warmed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Bring a medium saucepan of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add frozen pearl onions and cook for exactly 3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add frozen peas and cook for 2 additional minutes until bright green.
- Drain the vegetables thoroughly in a colander, then transfer to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Tip: This ice bath technique preserves the vibrant color and crisp-tender texture of the vegetables.
- Melt European-style butter in the same saucepan over medium heat until foaming subsides.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for exactly 90 seconds until the mixture turns pale golden, creating a roux.
- Slowly pour in warmed whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in fine sea salt, freshly grated nutmeg, and white pepper until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the blanched peas and pearl onions, heating through for 2 minutes until warmed completely. Tip: Avoid vigorous stirring to maintain the integrity of the delicate peas.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Tip: Adding parsley at the end preserves its bright flavor and vibrant color against the creamy backdrop.
Kneaded into this classic preparation is a symphony of textures—the pop of tender peas against the silken sauce, the subtle bite of pearl onions providing counterpoint. This cream-kissed side dish finds perfect harmony alongside roasted prime rib or makes an elegant bed for seared scallops, its delicate sweetness balancing richer main courses with effortless grace.
Creamed Peas and Carrots with Dill
Unveiling a timeless classic reimagined, this creamed peas and carrots with dill transforms humble vegetables into an elegant side dish worthy of any holiday table or weeknight supper. Using fresh dill and a velvety cream sauce elevates these garden staples to new heights of flavor and sophistication.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced into ½-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 1 small shallot, finely minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Instructions
1. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add the diced carrots and cook for 4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm.
3. Add the fresh sweet peas and cook for 2 additional minutes until bright green.
4. Drain the vegetables immediately and transfer to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process, which preserves their vibrant color and crisp texture.
5. Melt the unsalted European-style butter in a clean saucepan over medium heat until foamy.
6. Add the finely minced shallot and cook for 2 minutes until translucent but not browned.
7. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter-shallot mixture and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a pale golden roux.
8. Gradually pour in the warmed whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
9. Add the heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
10. Stir in the kosher salt and freshly ground white pepper until fully incorporated.
11. Gently fold in the blanched peas and carrots, heating through for 2 minutes until warmed.
12. Remove from heat and stir in the finely chopped fresh dill just before serving to maintain its delicate flavor.
Elevating simple ingredients through careful technique, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the tender carrots and pop of sweet peas enveloped in a luxurious cream sauce. The fresh dill provides a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness beautifully, making it an exceptional accompaniment to roasted meats or as part of an elegant vegetable medley.
Cheesy Creamed Peas with Cheddar
Unveiling a modern twist on a cherished comfort classic, this Cheesy Creamed Peas with Cheddar transforms humble ingredients into an elegant side dish worthy of any sophisticated table. The vibrant green peas swim in a velvety cream sauce, generously laced with sharp cheddar that melts into pure decadence, creating a harmonious balance between freshness and richness that will elevate even the simplest meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen petite peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Place frozen petite peas in a colander and run under cool water for 2 minutes to thaw completely, then drain thoroughly to prevent watering down the sauce.
- Melt unsalted European-style butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foaming subsides, about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle all-purpose flour over melted butter and whisk continuously for exactly 90 seconds to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a pale golden roux.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming, continuing until the mixture is perfectly smooth.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the cream sauce for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring after each addition until fully melted before adding the next, which prevents the sauce from breaking.
- Stir in freshly grated nutmeg, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until evenly distributed throughout the creamy sauce.
- Gently fold thawed petite peas into the cheese sauce and heat for 2-3 minutes until peas are warmed through but still maintain their bright green color and slight pop.
Creamy with just the right resistance from tender peas, this dish delivers a sophisticated comfort that marries earthy sweetness with sharp cheddar tang. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or as an unexpected topping for baked potatoes, where the velvety sauce creates luxurious pockets of flavor in every bite.
Lemon Garlic Creamed Peas
Unveiling a side dish that transforms humble peas into an extraordinary culinary experience, this Lemon Garlic Creamed Peas recipe elevates simple ingredients through careful technique and balanced flavors. Using fresh spring peas at their peak sweetness creates a vibrant base, while the luxurious cream sauce infused with aromatic garlic and bright lemon zest makes this dish worthy of any special occasion or elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas
– 3 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 2 cloves aromatic garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Instructions
1. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted European-style butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foaming subsides.
2. Add 2 cloves of minced aromatic garlic and cook for exactly 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the cream mixture for 5 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
5. Add 2 cups of fresh sweet peas to the cream sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes until peas are tender but still bright green.
6. Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest.
7. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and incorporated.
8. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground white pepper, tasting and adjusting if necessary.
9. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Buttery and luxurious, the cream sauce clings perfectly to each sweet pea, creating a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the peas’ slight pop. The bright citrus notes cut through the richness, making this dish an elegant accompaniment to roasted chicken or seared salmon, though it stands beautifully on its own as a sophisticated vegetable course.
Creamed Peas with Crispy Fried Shallots
Beneath their humble appearance lies a dish of remarkable sophistication, where sweet green peas luxuriate in a velvety cream sauce, crowned with golden, whisper-thin shallots that shatter with each bite. This classic preparation elevates simple ingredients into an elegant side dish that bridges rustic comfort with refined dining. Perfect for holiday tables or weeknight suppers alike, it transforms the ordinary into something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients
– 2 cups frozen sweet petite peas
– 3 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced into rings
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
2. Carefully add thinly sliced shallots to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove fried shallots with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, sprinkling immediately with a pinch of kosher salt.
4. Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foamy and fragrant.
5. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for exactly 1 minute to create a pale golden roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6. Gradually pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
7. Bring the cream mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring frequently.
8. Add frozen sweet petite peas to the cream sauce and cook for 4 minutes until peas are tender but still bright green.
9. Stir in freshly grated nutmeg, remaining kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until fully incorporated.
10. Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Perfectly balanced between creamy indulgence and textural contrast, the velvety peas provide a sweet foundation against the savory crunch of fried shallots. Serve this elegant side alongside roasted chicken or seared salmon for a complete meal, or spoon it over toasted crusty bread for an unexpected appetizer that celebrates both comfort and sophistication.
Smoky Paprika Creamed Peas
Nestled between tradition and innovation, this elegant side dish transforms humble peas into a sophisticated culinary experience. Smoky paprika lends a warm, complex depth to the velvety cream sauce, creating a harmonious balance that elevates any dinner table. Each spoonful promises comfort with a refined twist, making ordinary meals feel like special occasions.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons rich extra virgin olive oil
– 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, sweet and aromatic
– 2 cups frozen petite peas, vibrant green
– 1 cup heavy cream, luxuriously thick
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, sharp and nutty
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cold and creamy
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of rich extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 small finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
4. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sweet smoked paprika over the onion mixture and toast for 30 seconds to release its oils.
5. Add 2 cups of frozen petite peas and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until thawed and bright green.
6. Pour in 1 cup of luxuriously thick heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook for 3-4 minutes until the cream thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated sharp Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.
9. Remove from heat and swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold unsalted butter until the sauce becomes glossy.
10. Season with 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, stirring to combine evenly.
Creamy with a subtle smoky warmth, this dish offers a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to each pea. The vibrant green peas pop against the pale orange sauce, creating visual appeal that matches its sophisticated flavor profile. Serve alongside seared salmon or roasted chicken, or spoon over crusty bread for an elegant appetizer that celebrates simplicity with style.
Creamed Peas with Toasted Almonds
Zestfully bridging the gap between humble comfort and sophisticated elegance, this creamed peas preparation transforms simple ingredients into a dish worthy of any holiday table or special weeknight dinner. The delicate sweetness of fresh peas finds perfect harmony with the nutty crunch of toasted almonds, all enveloped in a velvety cream sauce that whispers of culinary refinement. Each bite offers a textural symphony that elevates the humble pea to new heights of deliciousness.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas
– 1/2 cup raw sliced almonds
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 1 small shallot, finely minced
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spread the raw sliced almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Toast the almonds in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and become fragrant, watching carefully to prevent burning.
3. Melt the unsalted European-style butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly.
4. Add the finely minced shallot to the melted butter and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently.
5. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for about 3 minutes.
6. Stir in the fresh sweet peas and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still bright green and slightly firm to the bite.
7. Sprinkle in the freshly grated nutmeg, fine sea salt, and freshly ground white pepper, stirring to combine evenly throughout the cream sauce.
8. Fold in the toasted almonds, reserving a tablespoon for garnish, and cook for one additional minute to incorporate.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley until evenly distributed.
This elegant side dish presents a beautiful contrast of textures, from the creamy sauce clinging to each pea to the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. The subtle sweetness of fresh peas plays beautifully against the rich cream base, while the nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic depth that makes this dish truly memorable. Try serving it alongside roasted chicken or as an unexpected accompaniment to grilled fish for a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food.
Herbed Creamed Peas with Tarragon
Radiant and refined, this elegant preparation transforms humble peas into a luxurious side dish that celebrates the delicate balance of fresh herbs and creamy indulgence. The subtle anise-like notes of tarragon weave through the velvety sauce, creating a sophisticated accompaniment worthy of any special occasion or elevated weeknight meal. Each spoonful offers a glimpse into the art of transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted European-style butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped tarragon leaves
– 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh chives
– ½ teaspoon delicate sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
– 1 small shallot, finely diced
Instructions
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted European-style butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to foam gently.
2. Add the finely diced shallot and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent browning.
3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles to form around the edges of the pan.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook the cream mixture for 8-10 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Add 2 cups of fresh or frozen sweet peas to the cream sauce and cook for 4-5 minutes until the peas are tender but still bright green.
6. Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped tarragon leaves and 1 teaspoon of finely minced fresh chives until evenly distributed.
7. Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon of delicate sea salt and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground white pepper, tasting and adjusting if necessary.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the creamed peas rest for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Zesty yet sophisticated, the finished dish presents a beautiful contrast between the vibrant green peas and the pale cream sauce. The texture offers both the slight pop of tender peas and the luxurious silkiness of the reduced cream, while the tarragon provides an aromatic lift that complements rather than overwhelms. Consider serving alongside roasted chicken or as an elegant topping for toasted brioche points for an unexpected appetizer presentation.
Creamed Peas and Ham in a Velvety Sauce
Visions of comfort food perfection come to life in this elegant yet approachable dish, where sweet peas and savory ham unite in a luxurious cream sauce that whispers of Sunday suppers and cherished family traditions. The velvety texture and harmonious balance of flavors make this classic preparation feel simultaneously nostalgic and sophisticated.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons rich European-style butter
– 1 small sweet yellow onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves aromatic garlic, minced
– 8 ounces premium diced ham, cut into ¼-inch cubes
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1½ cups whole milk, warmed to room temperature
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 16 ounces frozen petite peas, thawed
– ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Melt the European-style butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it foams gently.
2. Add the finely diced sweet yellow onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the minced aromatic garlic and cook for 30 seconds until just fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the premium diced ham and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the ham mixture and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a pale golden roux.
6. Gradually pour in the warmed whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens noticeably, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Stir in the thawed petite peas, freshly grated nutmeg, fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
9. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-6 minutes until the peas are tender but still bright green.
10. Remove from heat and stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley until evenly distributed.
Nothing compares to the luxurious mouthfeel of this creamy creation, where the tender peas pop against the silken sauce and smoky ham. Consider serving it over buttery mashed potatoes or crisp toast points to soak up every drop of the velvety goodness, creating a complete meal that feels both elegant and deeply satisfying.
Creamed Peas with Truffle Oil and Chives
Meticulously crafted yet wonderfully approachable, this elegant side dish transforms humble peas into a luxurious culinary experience. The subtle earthiness of truffle oil marries beautifully with the delicate sweetness of fresh peas, creating a sophisticated accompaniment that elevates any meal. With just a few quality ingredients and careful technique, you’ll achieve restaurant-worthy results in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
– 2 cups frozen petite peas
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon white truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Instructions
1. Place 2 cups frozen petite peas in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water for 30 seconds to remove any ice crystals.
2. Transfer the rinsed peas to a medium saucepan and add 1/4 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
3. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the butter melts completely and the cream begins to simmer gently, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the peas are tender but still bright green and the cream has thickened slightly, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon white truffle oil, 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives, 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, and 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper until fully incorporated.
6. Let the creamed peas rest for 2 minutes off heat to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Creamy yet delicate, this dish offers a beautiful textural contrast between the tender peas and the velvety sauce. The aromatic truffle oil provides an earthy depth that complements the natural sweetness of the peas, while the fresh chives add a subtle onion-like brightness. Consider serving this elegant creation alongside roasted chicken or as a sophisticated topping for crostini at your next dinner party.
Summary
Whether you’re craving classic comfort or something new, these 18 creamed pea recipes offer delicious inspiration for cozy meals. We hope you find a few favorites to try—and we’d love to hear which ones you make! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, and don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest so others can discover these comforting dishes too.
