Turn a simple mix of peas and carrots into a bright, quick, and tasty side dish.
You may remember one of the most famous references to peas and carrots from the movie “Forrest Gump,” when Forrest and Jenny met on the school bus. Explaining how they became fast friends, Forrest says, “Jenny and me was like peas and carrots.” Most people, of course, realize he was referencing the famous saying, “Like two peas in a pod.” But we all got the idea: It was a true and abiding friendship.
Peas and carrots are also one of history’s great pairings, easy to cook, slightly sweet, and a beautiful complement to a wide variety of other dishes. While peas are technically legumes, most people throw them in with the vegetable family – where honestly, they blend in pretty well. The nice thing about this combo is you can cook each to your desired consistency. My family loves them both cooked al dente, with a firm sweet crunchiness that complements the rest of our meal. Try this simple side with a non-fussy main dish like Healthy Baked Salmon and a side of Greek Lemon Rice for an easy and refreshing meal.
Are Peas and Carrots Healthy?
Peas and carrots are a healthy combination packed with vitamins and fiber. While the combo fits into most diets, keep in mind that peas are not allowed on some strict paleo diets. To keep with those diets you can easily substitute zucchini or broccoli, and make sure you use an approved fat to cook them with.
Can I use Different seasonings?
Absolutely! To add an unexpected twist, you can experiment with adding your favorite seasonings to peas and carrots. A dash of cumin adds a warm and earthy flavor with a hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the carrots, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that contrasts with the fresh flavors of both the peas and the carrots. Try a little tarragon to add a slightly licorice-tinged flavor; it pairs nicely with the garlic to create a sweet, somewhat earthy complexity.
INGREDIENTS
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare
Melt butter and cook garlic, cook carrots with water and salt.
Cook
Add peas, heat through, and season.
Garnish
Sprinkle with parsley.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
You can make peas and carrots ahead of time and store, cooked and cooled, in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low on the stovetop. To freeze, blanch the carrots, cool completely, and then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Since this recipe calls for frozen peas, you can take the peas and carrots out of the freezer at the same time and finish the recipe when you’re ready.
You can certainly use frozen carrots to save time, but keep in mind they have already been blanched before freezing, so they will soften more quickly. Keep an eye on them while you’re cooking so they don’t become mushy.
Of course! Another vegetable that pairs beautifully with peas is the good old standby potato. You can use red, Yukon Gold, russet, or any potato variety you favor. You can also use cauliflower, which has a nutty flavor that complements peas nicely.
Serving Suggestions
The really great thing about peas and carrots is that this dish goes with nearly any main dish you want to serve it with! It’s especially nice with Baked Chicken Breast or Baked Lemon Chicken along with a side of Air Fryer Baby Potatoes or creamy and golden Au Gratin Potatoes.
Peas and Carrots
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 3 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 cups frozen peas thawed
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the garlic. Cook until garlic is golden and fragrant.
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Add the sliced carrots, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until carrots are tender, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the peas and continue cooking until heated through, about 5 minutes longer, adding more water during cooking if needed.
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Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. When serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Nutrition
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