Oriental Peas
Oriental Peas is a savory, hearty dish combining tender peas with colorful vegetables and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors that appeal to both vegetable lovers and those seeking a nostalgic side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put margarine, chopped celery, and chopped green pepper in a skillet and sauté.
- Add the peas to the skillet.
- Cook for 5 minutes in 1 cup of boiling water and then drain.
- Add pimento, cream of celery soup, sliced water chestnuts, and 1/4 cup liquid from the water chestnuts.
- Mix everything thoroughly.
- Transfer to a covered dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute fresh peas for frozen if desired, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a pinch of garlic or onion powder can enhance the dish's taste. If you prefer more texture, try incorporating some sautéed mushrooms. This dish could also be made gluten-free by ensuring the cream of celery soup is compliant.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with warm bread for a comforting side. It can also complement a larger spread, such as during a potluck or family gathering. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of Country Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered, to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Peas contains roughly 731 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (126% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 847mg per serving (37% 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 frozen for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but make sure to blanch them briefly before adding to the skillet. This will help preserve their bright color and sweetness. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh peas may require less cooking than frozen ones.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as alternatives. For a healthier, homemade option, blend cooked celery with cream and a bit of vegetable broth to create a similar creamy consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).