Pea stew with polenta

Pea stew with spätzle - a recipe that combines the flavors of spring with the comforting texture of a dish that embraces your taste buds! This quick and simple recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Additionally, it is a great way to take advantage of the nutritional benefits of peas, which are rich in protein and vitamins.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg frozen peas
- 400 g spätzle (or dumplings, depending on preference)
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil)
- 2 medium red onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1-2 large carrots
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water. Chop the onion finely, and grate the carrots to better integrate them into the dish. Cut the bell pepper into small cubes.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 3-4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the bell pepper and grated carrot, continuing to sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for the stew.

3. Adding the peas: Once the vegetables are lightly sautéed, add the frozen peas. Stir well to combine the flavors. Cover the peas with warm water, about 1.5-2 liters, and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium.

4. Cooking the spätzle: After the water has started boiling, add the spätzle to the pot. They will absorb the flavor of the vegetables and become very tasty. Let everything boil for about 10 minutes, or until the spätzle are cooked.

5. Finishing the stew: When the spätzle are ready, chop the fresh dill finely and add it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to enrich the stew, add the two peeled and chopped tomatoes for an extra touch of freshness and color.

6. Serving: Remove the pot from the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend and intensify. Serve the pea stew with spätzle warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread.

Helpful Tip:
If you want to enhance the flavor intensity, you can add some spices, such as a pinch of sweet paprika or even a splash of crushed garlic during the sautéing of the vegetables. These will give the dish a special taste, and the combination with the fresh dill will be simply delicious.

Nutritional Benefits:
Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, especially vitamin K and vitamin C. They are also low in calories, making this dish a healthy and nutritious choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas are an excellent choice! Just make sure to cook them a little longer to become tender.

- What else can I add to the stew?
You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or diced potatoes, to add more consistency and nutrients.

- How can I turn this recipe into a vegetarian dish?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add tofu or seitan to increase the protein content.

Possible Variations:
- Spätzle with cheese: Add grated cheese (preferably cheddar or cottage cheese) over the spätzle before adding them to the stew.
- Pea stew with meat: You can add pieces of chicken or turkey, sautéed together with the onion, to turn this dish into a heartier meal.

Pairing with Drinks:
This pea stew pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will complement the delicate flavors of the dish.

Personal Note:
This recipe is one of my favorites, not just for its wonderful taste but also for how quickly it comes together. It’s perfect for days when time is limited but you want to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. So let yourself be carried away by the flavors of this dish and savor every bite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg frozen peas, 400 g spaghetti, 3-4 tablespoons of oil, 2 red onions, 1 red bell pepper, 1-2 carrots, 1 bunch of dill, salt, ground pepper

 Tags:  pea food