New potatoes and peas creamed together create a simple yet elegant side dish, perfect for spring and summer meals. This classic combination offers a delightful balance of subtly sweet potatoes and fresh, vibrant peas, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe goes beyond the basics, exploring variations and tips to elevate your culinary skills.
What Makes This Dish So Appealing?
The beauty of creamed new potatoes and peas lies in its simplicity and versatility. The delicate flavor of new potatoes, still young and tender, pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of fresh or frozen peas. The creamy sauce, whether made with cream, milk, or a combination, provides a rich and comforting texture that complements the vegetables perfectly. This dish is equally at home alongside roast chicken or grilled fish as it is with a hearty steak.
How to Choose the Best Ingredients:
Potatoes: Opt for new potatoes – their smaller size and thinner skins mean they cook faster and more evenly. Look for potatoes with smooth, unblemished skins and firm flesh. Avoid any that feel soft or show signs of sprouting.
Peas: Fresh peas, if available in season, offer the best flavor and texture. Frozen peas are a convenient alternative and retain a significant amount of their nutrients. Avoid canned peas, as they can be mushy and less flavorful.
Creamed New Potatoes and Peas Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb new potatoes, scrubbed and halved or quartered if large
- 1 lb fresh or frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or a combination of heavy cream and milk for a lighter sauce)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 shallots, finely minced (or 1 small onion, finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Cook the Peas: While the potatoes are cooking, cook the peas. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain. If using frozen peas, cook according to package directions.
- Make the Sauce: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots (or onion) and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine: Add the cooked potatoes and peas to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream (and milk, if using), parsley, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
- Serve: Serve warm as a side dish.
What are Some Variations on Creamed New Potatoes and Peas?
H2: Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding other spring vegetables like asparagus tips, chopped carrots, or even diced zucchini for added color and flavor. Just be mindful of their cooking times and add them accordingly. Asparagus, for example, cooks faster than potatoes, so add it towards the end.
H2: What other herbs can I use?
Besides parsley and thyme, other herbs like chives, dill, or even a touch of mint can add a delightful dimension to the dish. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
H2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the creamed potatoes and peas ahead of time. Reheat gently over low heat before serving, adding a splash of extra cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.
H2: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
The recipe as written is vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You might also want to use vegan butter.
Tips for the Perfect Creamed Potatoes and Peas:
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and lose their texture. Aim for tender but still slightly firm potatoes.
- Season generously: Salt and pepper are key to bringing out the flavors of the potatoes and peas. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cream and add more milk.
- Garnish beautifully: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a grating of Parmesan cheese (for non-vegan versions) can elevate the presentation.
Creamed new potatoes and peas are a versatile and delicious side dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Experiment with different variations and find your perfect combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy!
