Crunchy Pea Casserole
A creamy, crunchy casserole combining peas, water chestnuts, and pimento with a savory stuffing topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and green pepper in 1/2 stick of margarine until tender.
- Add water chestnuts, peas, pimento, and mushroom soup; mix together and pour into a buttered casserole dish.
- Melt remaining margarine and mix with the stuffing; spread evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F until heated through and golden, approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using olive oil instead of margarine. You can substitute fresh peas for canned ones if you prefer a fresher taste. If you don’t have mushroom soup on hand, a creamy white sauce can work well as an alternative. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking can enhance the flavor. For more ideas, browse American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Crunchy Pea Casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as a side dish at family gatherings. Consider complementing it with Judy's 'Mounds' for a delightful dessert finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Pea Casserole contains roughly 1070 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1091mg per serving (47% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the green pepper?
If you’re not a fan of green pepper, you can substitute it with diced celery or zucchini for a different flavor profile. Both options will add a nice crunch and complement the other ingredients well. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables too, like corn or diced carrots.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this Crunchy Pea Casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, if you are looking for a vegan version, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and ensure that the mushroom soup is dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
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).