Swiss Creamed Peas
Swiss Creamed Peas offer a rich and creamy side with the sweetness of peas balanced by nutty Swiss cheese and bright lemon peel. The dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, pairing well with meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian option. Its velvety texture and savory flavors make it a comforting favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen peas in a large saucepan according to the package directions.
- In a separate skillet, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually add the whipping cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add the finely shredded lemon peel and shredded Swiss cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Mix in the cooked peas and sliced scallions, heating through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce. If you're out of Swiss cheese, Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar can be great substitutes. Fresh peas can also be used instead of frozen; simply adjust cooking time as needed. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the whipping cream.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty breadsticks from the Kid's Corner or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. It also makes a delightful side for grilled chicken or fish, adding a pop of color and flavor to your plate. Consider serving it alongside Herbed Green Pea Soup for a cohesive meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce's creaminess while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Creamed Peas contains roughly 414 calories, with 23g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 14g 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, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes before adding them to the cream sauce. This will help retain their vibrant color and sweet flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Swiss Creamed Peas vegetarian, ensure that the butter or margarine is plant-based and check that your cheese is rennet-free. This dish is naturally vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for those looking for flavorful vegetarian recipes.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the cream sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat and stir in the cooked peas and scallions before serving. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
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).