Peas à la Française Recipe

Introduction

Peas à la Française is a classic French side dish that combines tender peas with aromatic herbs, crispy bacon, and fresh lettuce for a light and flavorful springtime accompaniment. Simple to prepare, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can shine on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 1 shallot, diced
• 3-4 strips of bacon
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 sprig thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped herbs (parsley and mint), for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crisp and golden. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
2. Step 2: Add the diced shallot to the pan with the bacon fat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the peas and butter. Pour in ½ cup water, add the sprig of thyme and the chopped romaine lettuce. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender and lettuce has wilted. This will take about 15-20 minutes for fresh peas, or 5-6 minutes if using frozen.
4. Step 4: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprig, then sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and mint over the top just before serving.
5. Step 5: Serve warm as a delicious side with roasted chicken, lamb, or enjoy it as a light, comforting dish on its own.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoky depth, use smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon.
• If you prefer, substitute spinach for romaine lettuce for a different texture and flavor.
• Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish.
• Use fresh peas when in season for the best flavor, but frozen peas make a quick and convenient alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the peas from becoming mushy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Peas à la Française without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. Use olive oil or butter to sauté the shallots instead to maintain richness.

Is it necessary to use romaine lettuce in this recipe?

Romaine adds a mild crunch and freshness, but you can substitute with spinach or other tender greens if preferred.

Peas à la Française Recipe

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Peas à la Française is a classic French side dish featuring tender peas cooked with crisp bacon, shallots, fresh herbs, and buttery romaine lettuce. This comforting and flavorful recipe highlights the freshness of spring vegetables with aromatic thyme, parsley, and mint, making it an ideal accompaniment to roasted meats like chicken or lamb.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables and Herbs

• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 1 shallot, diced
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 spring thyme (sprig)
• Fresh chopped herbs: parsley and mint (to taste)

Other Ingredients

• 3–4 strips of bacon
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they become crisp and golden brown. This renders the fat that will flavor the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the shallot: Add the diced shallot directly into the pan with the bacon and its fat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the shallot softens and releases its fragrance.
3. Add peas and seasonings: Into the skillet, add the peas, butter, 1/2 cup water, a sprig of thyme, and the chopped romaine lettuce. Cover the skillet and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the lettuce has wilted. If using frozen peas, reduce the cooking time to 5 to 6 minutes.
4. Season and garnish: Remove the thyme sprig, then season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and mint on top for a bright herbal finish.
5. Serve: Serve this warm, flavorful side dish alongside roasted chicken, lamb, or any comforting springtime entrée.

Notes

• Using fresh peas enhances the flavor and texture, but frozen peas are a convenient alternative; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Bacon fat is essential for authentic flavor; however, you can substitute with olive oil or butter for a lighter version.
• Replacing romaine lettuce with other tender leafy greens like spinach or baby kale works well but may alter the texture.
• This dish pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats and can be a vibrant addition to a springtime menu.

Keywords: peas à la française, French side dish, peas recipe, bacon and peas, spring vegetables, romaine lettuce side, easy French recipe