Pea Wiggle
A comforting and creamy pea and tuna dish with a smooth white sauce, perfect for a quick lunch or family dinner, served over potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make white sauce by melting shortening in a saucepan.
- Add flour and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cook until thickened.
- Add peas and tuna to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Serve over potatoes or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the shortening with olive oil or butter. You can also experiment by adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor. If you're out of tuna, canned chicken works just as well in this recipe. This dish is also a great use for leftover cooked vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Pea wiggle is best served over fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. Consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, pair it with crusty bread or serve alongside Fresh Fried Fish for a delightful seafood-themed dinner. This dish also makes for a comforting lunch option when paired with crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea Wiggle contains roughly 993 calories, with 35g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use frozen peas in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first or add them to the sauce when it's nearly done cooking to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the tuna and add more vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use chickpeas for added protein and texture. This adaptation still delivers a delicious creamy sauce with plenty of flavor.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover pea wiggle can be repurposed as a filling for a savory pie or as a topping for baked potatoes. You can also mix it with pasta for a quick meal. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed since flavors may intensify after sitting.
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).