Italian Deluxe Piselli
A vibrant and fresh Italian side dish featuring peas, asparagus, and scallions, lightly seasoned and perfect for spring gatherings or a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a 7-inch nonstick skillet frypan and heat until hot.
- Add chopped scallions and fresh English peas to the skillet.
- Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cut asparagus and cook until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Add water if necessary to prevent drying.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil if desired. Serve hot as a side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest just before serving. If fresh English peas are unavailable, frozen peas can be a good substitute. For a heartier version, toss in some cooked bacon or pancetta. Always taste and adjust seasoning, especially if you're using salty ingredients like bacon or broth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a delightful side for grilled meats or fish and pairs beautifully with A Pasta Salad for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any remaining flavors. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or a hearty soup like Pasta And Fagioli.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the vegetables mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Deluxe Piselli contains roughly 27 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas can be used as a convenient substitute. Just add them to the skillet frozen and cook for a few extra minutes until heated through. They retain their sweetness and color, making them a great option when fresh peas are out of season.
How do I make this dish more filling?
To make Italian Deluxe Piselli more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or farro to the mixture. You can also include proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. This will transform the dish into a wholesome main course rather than just a side dish.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
In addition to salt and pepper, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme to elevate the dish. Dried herbs can also work well; just remember to adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
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).