Cheesy Peas
A creamy, cheesy pea dish with garlic flavor, perfect as a comforting side or quick appetizer, appealing to cheese lovers and pea enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the peas and save the juice.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream of mushroom soup and garlic cheese, adding enough pea juice to prevent sticking.
- Add the drained peas to the heated mixture and cook until warmed through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture. If you can't find garlic cheese, a combination of cream cheese and minced garlic will work well. To elevate the dish, try adding some grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This recipe also pairs nicely with vegetarian recipes that include rice or pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy peas dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs excellently with Polly's Okie Cornbread for a comforting side. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it over quinoa or as a side to a robust salad. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of water or additional pea juice to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Peas contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of canned?
Yes, fresh peas can be used, but you'll need to cook them until tender before adding them to the mixture. This may take about 5-7 minutes of boiling. Be sure to drain them well and reserve some cooking liquid to achieve the right consistency in the dish.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a healthier option or don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version using a roux of butter and flour, adding sautéed mushrooms and vegetable broth. This will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor without the canned ingredient.
Is this dish suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! Cheesy peas make a great potluck dish because they are easy to prepare and transport. Just keep them warm in a slow cooker or transfer them to a serving dish upon arrival. They are sure to be a hit among guests, complementing a variety of other dishes like scalloped corn and green peppers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).