June Peas
June Peas is a delightful springtime side dish featuring tender cooked peas, sweet onions, and crisp lettuce, all gently combined with butter and seasoned to taste. Its fresh, light flavors make it perfect for family meals, picnics, or elegant dinners that celebrate seasonal produce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the peas lightly, about 15 minutes.
- Add boiled onions, shredded lettuce, and one-third cup of the liquid in which the peas were cooked.
- Cream the butter with the flour; then add to the peas.
- Reheat to boiling, stirring gently.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chervil if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh, sweet peas when in season. If fresh peas are unavailable, frozen peas can be a good substitute, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream after reheating. For a unique twist, try incorporating herbs like mint or basil for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like roasted chicken or a side of Irish Colcannon for a comforting touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the peas in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the peas mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of June Peas contains roughly 344 calories, with 9g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 510mg per serving (22% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peas and onions ahead of time. Simply cook them, then cool and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat with the butter and flour mixture. However, it's best to add the lettuce just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
What can I substitute for small white onions?
If you can't find small white onions, shallots or green onions can be great substitutes. They provide a similar mild onion flavor that complements the peas well. Just adjust the quantity according to your taste preference, as shallots can be more potent.
Is there a vegetarian variation of this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian. To enhance the flavor profile, you can add vegetable broth instead of the water used for cooking peas. Additionally, consider adding other vegetables such as diced carrots or celery for added texture.
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).