Cream Peas And Carrots Recipe: A Luscious Side Dish Guide

Cream Peas And Carrots Recipe

Looking for a delicious and comforting side dish to complement your main course? Look no further than this creamy and flavorful peas and carrots recipe. This classic dish is a perfect way to add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply craving some comfort food, this cream peas and carrots recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

To make this delightful cream peas and carrots dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups frozen peas
– 2 cups sliced carrots
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing this delectable cream peas and carrots recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the frozen peas and sliced carrots to the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender. Once cooked, drain the vegetables and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook the mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Seasonings
Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking the mixture to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce has thickened, add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine the Vegetables and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring the peas and carrots back into the spotlight. Gently add the cooked vegetables to the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Stir gently to combine the vegetables and sauce without mashing the peas.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
To elevate the flavor profile of the dish, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will impart a rich and savory note to the cream sauce, taking the dish to the next level. Stir the cheese into the mixture until it’s fully melted and well incorporated.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is beautifully combined, transfer the cream peas and carrots to a serving dish. If desired, garnish the dish with some fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The vibrant green parsley will create an appealing visual contrast against the creamy backdrop of the dish.

Enjoy Your Cream Peas and Carrots!
Your delightful cream peas and carrots are now ready to be enjoyed. Serve this savory side dish alongside your favorite entrees such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a juicy steak. The creamy texture, vibrant colors, and delectable flavors of the peas and carrots will undoubtedly make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits of Peas and Carrots:
Aside from being a delicious addition to your meal, peas and carrots also offer a range of health benefits. Peas are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese. Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, promoting good vision and overall eye health.

Nutritional Value:
In addition to their health benefits, peas and carrots are also low in calories, making them a nutritious and waistline-friendly option. The combination of these two vegetables in a creamy sauce not only enhances the taste but also adds a dose of essential nutrients to your diet.

Variations and Substitutions:
While this classic cream peas and carrots recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, feel free to experiment with variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences. You can add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to infuse the dish with an extra layer of flavor. For a touch of sweetness, consider incorporating a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup into the cream sauce.

If you’re looking to make the dish dairy-free, you can use a plant-based milk alternative and dairy-free butter. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to achieve the desired creamy texture.

Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, this cream peas and carrots recipe is a timeless and versatile dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of peas and carrots with the indulgent creaminess of the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting side dish, this recipe is a must-try. With its simple preparation, delightful flavors, and nutritional benefits, it’s a delightful addition to any meal. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dish and savor the heartwarming flavors of cream peas and carrots?