Savory Sauted Peas Bacon Irresistible Side Dish Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of green peas and bacon, don’t you think? This dish takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in the spring when fresh peas were popping up in the garden. The scent of sizzling bacon mingling with the sweet, earthy aroma of just-picked peas is pure magic. I remember sneaking bites straight from the pot while Grandma would laugh and say, “Just wait until dinner, dear!” But how could I resist?

If you’re looking for a simple yet elevated side dish to accompany your meals, let me introduce you to Sauteed Green Peas and Bacon. It’s a dish that showcases bright, vibrant flavors, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it did in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
• Budget-friendly with just a handful of ingredients.
• Comforting flavors that the whole family will adore.
• Perfect side to pair with almost anything—grilled meats, pasta, or even a hearty salad!

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll want everything fresh and ready to go for an efficient cooking experience.

• 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional, but highly recommended for brightness!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s cook up a storm together!

1. Start by cooking the bacon. In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and delicious!
2. Once the bacon is crispy, using a slotted spoon, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Keep the rendered fat in the skillet because it’s what makes this dish so flavorful!
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. The smell of onions cooking in that smoky bacon fat is simply heavenly!
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—it turns bitter so quickly!
5. Next, add the green peas to the skillet. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just toss them in and stir well to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through, vibrant in color, and tender. If they start looking mushy, you know you’ve gone too far!
6. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet with the peas and onions. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice here can really elevate the dish and bring all those flavors together.
7. Give everything one final stir and remove from the heat. Voila! You’ve made Sauteed Green Peas and Bacon!

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling a little adventurous? Here are some fun twists you can try!

• Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or mix in some fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a refreshing twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the bacon for smoked paprika and a dash of soy sauce to replicate that smoky flavor without the meat.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or feta cheese over the top just before serving for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Toast some pine nuts or chopped walnuts and toss them in just before serving for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a lovely dinner that feels special yet uncomplicated. Pair it with a simple lemon vinaigrette salad or a warm crusty bread to scoop up every last bit! You’ll find that even the simplest dinners feel like a feast when you have Sauteed Green Peas and Bacon on the table.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to ensure your peas and bacon stay delightful:

• Refrigerating: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep things moist.
• Freezing: While I suggest enjoying this dish fresh for the best texture, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just know that the peas might lose some of their bright color and crunch.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight then warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen peas are a fantastic option and actually cook up just as well. Plus, they’re often picked and frozen at peak freshness, so you won’t miss out on that sweet flavor!

What can I substitute for bacon?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory flavor without the meat. You could also use turkey bacon or prosciutto for a different take!

How do I know when the peas are done cooking?

Cook the peas until they are bright in color and tender but not mushy! If they look dull or too soft, you’ve overdone it. A little crunch is always welcome!

What can I serve with Sauteed Green Peas and Bacon?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or even quinoa. I also love it with a fresh garden salad or alongside risotto for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

And there you have it, my friends! A warm, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope when you make Sauteed Green Peas and Bacon, it brings you as much joy as it does to me. I’d love to hear how you enjoyed this dish—feel free to comment below and share your experience or any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking!

Savory Sauted Peas Bacon Irresistible Side Dish Delight

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover the perfect side dish with sauted green peas crispy bacon bringing flavor and flair to your meals Easy delicious and unforgettable 155 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups fresh or frozen green peas

4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)

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Instructions

Start by cooking the bacon. In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. Keep the rendered fat in the skillet.

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the green peas to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and tender.

Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Give everything one final stir and remove from the heat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 200 calories
• Sugar: 3 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 10 g

Keywords: green peas, bacon, side dish, simple recipe, comfort food