Oh, let me tell you about creamed peas and carrots! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing that comforting, homey feel to any meal. The creamy texture of the sauce perfectly envelops the tender peas and sweet, diced carrots, making it a family favorite at my dinner table. It’s a classic side dish that’s not only simple to whip up but also adds a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. Trust me, it’s one of those recipes that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so it fits right in for any occasion! Whether you’re serving it up for Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into making this delightful side!

Ingredients List

1 cup peas (fresh or frozen, if using frozen, just thaw them beforehand)
1 cup carrots, diced (make them bite-sized for easy eating)
2 tablespoons butter (for that rich, creamy base)
2 tablespoons flour (to help thicken the sauce)
1 cup milk (whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use whatever you have on hand)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy, it brings out all the flavors!)
Pepper to taste (freshly ground is always a treat)

**How to Prepare Creamed Peas and Carrots Instructions**

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

First, bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the peas and diced carrots, cooking them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant. You want that beautiful color to shine through!
Once they’re cooked, drain the vegetables and set them aside. I like to give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them bright and fresh.
Now, in the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Listen for that lovely sizzle! It’s time to add the flour to create a roux. Stir it together for about a minute until it’s lightly golden, which gives a nice depth of flavor.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring consistently to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens up—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Now, fold in your peas and carrots, gently mixing them into the creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens! Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a good stir to ensure everything is well combined.
Finally, serve it warm and enjoy the creamy goodness! I promise, this dish is going to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
Deliciously creamy flavor that pairs well with just about any main dish.
Bright colors make your plate pop, appealing to both kids and adults.
Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it guilt-free!
Great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!

Tips for Success

Make sure to cook the peas and carrots just until tender. You want them to retain a bit of bite and vibrant color!
When making the roux, keep stirring to avoid any lumps. A whisk works wonders here!
If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing a small minced onion or garlic in the butter before adding the flour.
Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix up your creamed peas and carrots! For a fresh twist, try adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill right at the end for a burst of flavor. You can also toss in some cooked diced ham or crispy bacon for a heartier dish that’s sure to please meat lovers. Want a bit of zing? A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten everything up! And if you’re looking for a more substantial meal, serve it over rice or quinoa for a delicious veggie bowl.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to creamed peas and carrots, you can enjoy a delicious side without the guilt! Each serving is estimated to have about 150 calories, making it a light addition to your meal. You’ll also find around 7 grams of fat, including 4 grams of saturated fat, and 4 grams of protein, which is great for a veggie dish. Plus, with 4 grams of fiber, it’s a good way to boost your daily intake of veggies. Just keep in mind that these values are estimates, so feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Common Questions About Creamed Peas and Carrots

Can I use frozen peas and carrots for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas and carrots work perfectly and save you time. Just thaw them before adding to the dish, and you’re good to go!

What can I serve with creamed peas and carrots?
This creamy side pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty vegetarian casserole. It adds that nice touch of color and flavor to any plate!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge after cooking, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. It’ll still be delicious!

Is there a way to add more protein to creamed peas and carrots?
Definitely! You can mix in some shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. It’s a great way to make this side dish a bit heartier!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your creamed peas and carrots is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy this delicious side dish again without any fuss! If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it, but I recommend consuming it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm it up on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a splash of milk to help bring back that creamy consistency, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover the dish and stir every minute or so to ensure even heating. Trust me, no one likes a cold bite in the middle of a warm, comforting dish!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

For tips on cooking vegetables perfectly, visit Healthline for more information.

Creamed Peas and Carrots: 5 Reasons to Love This Classic Dish

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamed peas and carrots is a classic side dish that combines tender vegetables in a creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup peas
1 cup carrots, diced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the peas and carrots in boiling water until tender.
Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and stir to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Cook until the sauce thickens.
Add the peas and carrots to the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder.
You can substitute half-and-half for a richer sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: creamed peas and carrots, vegetable side dish, creamy vegetables

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