Hot Buttered Snap Peas With Scallions And Ham

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying side dish that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than Hot Buttered Snap Peas with Scallions and Ham. This delectable recipe combines the natural sweetness of sugar snap peas with the savory richness of baked ham and the fresh, mild onion flavor of scallions. Tossed in a luscious buttery sauce with a hint of lemon zest and juice, these snap peas are a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 ounces baked ham, cut into ¼- to ½-inch cubes
• 6 scallions, whites sliced into ¼-inch segments, greens finely sliced (reserve separately)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Kosher salt
• 1 pound sugar snap peas, strings and ends removed
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Sauté the Ham and Scallions

1. In a 12-inch heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
2. Add the baked ham and sliced scallion whites to the skillet, and cook, stirring and tossing occasionally, until the ham starts to turn golden brown. This should take about 3 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat, and add the unsalted butter to the ham and scallion mixture. Set it aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Sugar Snap Peas

1. In a Dutch oven, bring 4 quarts of water and ¼ cup of salt to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the sugar snap peas to the boiling water and cook them for about 3 minutes or until they become bright green and tender yet still retain a bit of crunch.
3. Once the snap peas are cooked, drain them thoroughly.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Add the drained sugar snap peas to the skillet containing the ham and scallion mixture.
2. Place the skillet back over high heat, and toss and stir the snap peas until they are completely coated with the melted butter and the flavors of the ham and scallions are well incorporated.
3. Stir in the finely sliced scallion greens, grated lemon zest, and lemon juice, adding a burst of freshness and tanginess to the dish.
4. Season the hot buttered snap peas with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Your Hot Buttered Snap Peas with Scallions and Ham are now ready to be served.
2. Transfer the dish to a serving platter, and garnish with an extra sprinkle of lemon zest and a few scallion greens for an appealing presentation.
3. These delectable snap peas make a delightful side dish for a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to seared fish or grilled pork.

Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in this Hot Buttered Snap Peas with Scallions and Ham dish. The sweet snap peas, savory ham, and fresh scallions come together harmoniously in the buttery sauce with a zing of lemon, making this recipe a standout addition to any meal.