Peas With Bacon
A comforting side dish featuring tender peas combined with crispy bacon and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; drain and set aside.
- Cook chopped onion in bacon drippings until tender.
- Blend in flour, then stir in light cream.
- Add peas, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender, about 15 minutes for fresh peas.
- Add bacon, season to taste, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta as a substitute. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the light cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. To enhance the dish, add fresh herbs like mint or parsley, which pair well with peas. Make sure to stir continuously when adding flour to prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted chicken and is a delightful side for any summer barbecue. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving with a protein like Simple Pork Chops for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the peas mushy. If needed, add a splash of cream to refresh the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas With Bacon contains roughly 304 calories, with 14g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 peas?
Yes, you can use frozen peas for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. The cooking time may be slightly reduced, so keep an eye on them while they cook to ensure they don't become mushy.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing the onions. You can add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms for additional depth and texture.
What can I serve with Peas With Bacon?
Peas With Bacon is a versatile side dish that complements various main courses. It pairs particularly well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light pasta dish or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the bacon.
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).