TIP OF THE DAY: Things To Do With Frozen Peas | The Nibble Webzine Of Food Adventures - The Nibble Webzine Of Food AdventuresTIP OF THE DAY: Things To Do With Frozen Peas | The Nibble Webzine Of Food Adventures
Frozen peas are a versatile ingredient. Photo by Claire Freierman | THE NIBBLE
We typically keep a bag of frozen peas in the freezer—not as a substitute ice pack, but to add a burst of color and flavor to just about any savory dish.
Many recipes add peas for exactly that reason. But we’ve got ways to use peas that you may not have considered.
Why frozen peas?
They’re well-priced and easy to keep on hand.
They’re pre-cooked and thaw quickly at room temperature (or steam them for a few seconds in the microwave).
The texture, flavor and color are excellent (canned peas are mushy and have that canned taste).
But in another month or two, when peas are in season, it’s time to buy and shell them, and enjoy pea purée and fresh pea soup in all their glory.
EVERYDAY USES FOR FROZEN PEAS
Eggs: Add peas to omelets or as a garnish for any style of eggs; mash peas into deviled eggs and/or sprinkle on top of them.
Garnish: Pretty much everything looks bright and cheerful with a garnish of peas.
Mashed Potatoes: Mash peas in with the potatoes, or use as a garnish.
Pasta: Just about any pasta dish can be complemented with dots of green peas, including mac and cheese and macaroni salad.
Rice & Other Grains: Ditto. Peas are the easiest way to perk up leftover rice (add some green onion and red bell pepper).
Salads: Add peas to bean salad, chicken salad, egg salad, green salad, potato salad, rice salad, shrimp salad, tuna salad, vegetable salad, etc.
Sauces & Dips: Blend peas into hummus, pesto or yogurt dip, or make this delicious pea and Parmesan dip.
Side: Peas as a side dish are a no-brainer, but pea purée is a special treat (add a bit of mint).
Soup Garnish: Sprinkle peas atop any soup, with or without croutons.
Make a risotto, or mix green peas into regular rice. Photo courtesy CBCrabcakes.com.
