Hot Buttered Peas With Bacon, Shallots, And Tarragon

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with Hot Buttered Peas with Bacon, Shallots, and Tarragon. This delectable side dish brings together the sweetness of peas, the savory goodness of bacon, the delicate aroma of shallots, and the fresh herbal notes of tarragon. Tossed in butter, and complemented by a touch of lemon zest and juice, this dish is a burst of taste and texture. The secret to achieving a creamy glaze-like coating lies in adding the butter to the peas with the help of their temperature-regulating properties. This recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound (about 3 cups) frozen peas
• 2 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into ½-inch-wide strips
• 1 medium shallot, finely sliced (about ¼ cup)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Thaw and Warm the Peas

1. Place the frozen peas in a colander and run them under hot water until they are fully thawed and warmed. This should take about 4 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Shallots

1. In a large saucepan, cook the thick-cut bacon over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the bacon has rendered its fat and becomes crisp.
2. Add the finely sliced shallot to the bacon and cook, stirring frequently, until the shallot softens. This should take about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Butter and Toss the Peas

1. Add the warmed peas and unsalted butter to the saucepan with the bacon and shallots. Toss everything together to ensure the peas are well coated in the buttery goodness.
2. Cook the peas, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through. This process should take about 2 minutes, allowing the butter to create a creamy and glaze-like coating on the peas.

Step 4: Add Tarragon, Lemon Zest, and Juice

1. Stir in the finely chopped fresh tarragon, grated lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. These ingredients will elevate the dish with their aromatic and zesty flavors.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Season the Hot Buttered Peas with Bacon, Shallots, and Tarragon with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
2. Your delicious hot buttered peas are now ready to be served.
3. Transfer the peas to a serving dish, and for a lovely presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped tarragon and an extra pinch of lemon zest.
4. These flavorful and buttery peas make a wonderful side dish for various main courses, such as grilled pork chops, roasted chicken, or seared fish.

Enjoy the enticing combination of flavors in this Hot Buttered Peas with Bacon, Shallots, and Tarragon recipe. The sweet peas, savory bacon, aromatic shallots, and fresh tarragon come together harmoniously with a zing of lemon, making this dish a standout addition to any meal.

Hot Buttered Peas with Bacon, Shallots, and Tarragon is a side dish that will quickly become a favorite at your table. The combination of sweet peas, crispy bacon, tender shallots, and aromatic tarragon creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The creamy glaze-y coating achieved by tossing the peas in butter ensures a luxurious and satisfying experience with every bite. The zesty touch of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing note, making this dish a perfect complement to a wide range of main courses. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this flavorful and comforting dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the delightful indulgence of Hot Buttered Peas with Bacon, Shallots, and Tarragon and make it a regular addition to your culinary repertoire.