Savory Steamed English Peas with Basil Butter Sauce
Experience the delightful combination of fresh, vibrant English peas and a rich basil-infused butter sauce in this elegant side dish. Perfectly steamed peas absorb the aromatic flavors of fresh basil, whipped butter, and zesty orange rind, bringing a touch of sophistication to your meal. Ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings, this dish is both simple to prepare and visually stunning. Whether you use garden-fresh peas or high-quality frozen ones, this recipe guarantees a delicious addition to any entree.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh basil, chopped
3 tablespoons (Chopped)
Butter, softened
3 tablespoons (Softened)
Whipped butter, softened
3 tablespoons (Softened)
Orange rind, grated
1 teaspoon (Grated)
Fresh English peas
4 cups (Rinsed (or follow package directions for frozen))
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing your butter sauce. In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh basil, softened butter, whipped butter, and grated orange rind. Stir until well blended and smooth, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2
If using fresh English peas, rinse them under cold water and arrange them in a vegetable steamer over boiling water. Cover and steam for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender and bright green. If you are using frozen peas, cook them according to the package directions.
3
Once the peas are perfectly steamed, transfer them to a serving bowl. Dollop the basil butter mixture over the hot peas, allowing the heat to gently melt the butter.
4
Gently stir to combine the melted basil butter with the peas, ensuring they are evenly coated. Serve immediately, and enjoy the vibrant flavors in each bite.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Steamed English Peas with Basil Butter Sauce?
It is an elegant side dish featuring fresh, steamed English peas coated in a rich, aromatic sauce made from fresh basil, butter, and orange rind.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The recipe requires fresh basil, softened butter, whipped butter, grated orange rind, and fresh English peas.
How much fresh basil should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
What types of butter are needed?
You will need 3 tablespoons of softened butter and 3 tablespoons of softened whipped butter.
How much orange rind is required?
You should use 1 teaspoon of grated orange rind.
How many cups of English peas are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 cups of fresh English peas.
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use high-quality frozen peas and cook them according to the package directions.
How long should I steam fresh English peas?
Steam fresh peas for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender and bright green.
How do I prepare the basil butter sauce?
Combine the chopped basil, softened butter, whipped butter, and orange rind in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
When should the butter sauce be added to the peas?
The butter mixture should be dolloped over the peas once they have been perfectly steamed and transferred to a serving bowl.
Is this dish suitable for dinner parties?
Yes, this dish is elegant and visually stunning, making it ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the butter and whipped butter with plant-based alternatives to make it vegan.
How do I ensure the peas are evenly coated?
Gently stir the melted basil butter into the peas after dolloping it over the hot vegetables.
What flavor does the orange rind provide?
The orange rind adds a zesty, citrus aromatic that complements the fresh basil and rich butter.
Do I need to rinse the fresh peas?
Yes, it is recommended to rinse fresh English peas under cold water before steaming.
Should the butter be softened before mixing?
Yes, both the regular butter and the whipped butter should be softened to ensure a smooth blend.
How is the basil prepared?
The fresh basil should be chopped before being mixed into the butter.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 primary ingredients in this recipe.
What is the primary cooking method for the peas?
The primary cooking method is steaming.
Can I make the basil butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.
What color should the peas be when finished?
They should be a bright green color.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is categorized as an easy recipe that is simple to prepare.
Does the recipe include salt?
Salt is not explicitly listed in the ingredients, but the butter may provide enough sodium, or you can season to taste.
What type of dish is this categorized as?
It is categorized as a vegetable side dish.
Can I use dried basil if fresh is unavailable?
While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil in a smaller quantity (about 1 tablespoon) if necessary.
How should the dish be served?
It should be served immediately while the peas are hot and the butter is freshly melted.
What is the texture of the finished peas?
The peas should be tender but not mushy.
What is the purpose of using whipped butter?
Whipped butter helps create a lighter consistency for the sauce and melts easily over the peas.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged under healthy cooking and features fresh seasonal vegetables.