Sesame Peas
Creamy green peas coated with toasted sesame and butter create a savory side dish with nutty flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook peas as directed on the package; drain.
- In a skillet, cook margarine or butter, sesame seed, sugar, and salt over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden brown.
- Pour the sesame mixture over the cooked peas and toss to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider using toasted sesame seeds instead of raw. If you want a lighter option, swap out margarine for olive oil. Fresh peas can also be used in place of frozen ones; just adjust the cooking time. To enhance flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the sesame mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sesame peas as a delightful side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish. They pair beautifully with Southern Family Swiss Steak for a comforting meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy them alongside a hearty grain salad or a bowl of Miso Soup With Bean Sprouts. Garnish with extra sesame seeds for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sesame peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Peas contains roughly 456 calories, with 13g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value). 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 fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as fresh peas will cook faster. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp, then follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor, or use olive oil for a healthier option. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, coconut oil or a plant-based butter would work well. Just keep in mind that each substitute will slightly alter the taste of the dish.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the skillet while cooking the sesame mixture. A splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the taste. For a nutty twist, toss in some chopped scallions or toasted almonds before serving.
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).