Green peas and bacon come together in a dish that is both comforting and packed with flavor. The sweetness of fresh or frozen peas blends perfectly with the smoky richness of crispy bacon, creating a side dish that is simple yet deeply satisfying. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or as a flavorful addition to a brunch spread.
Table of Contents
Variations and Dietary Substitutes
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
Why You’ll Love This Green Peas and Bacon Recipe
The combination of green peas and bacon creates a balanced contrast of flavors and textures. The slight crunch of well-cooked bacon adds depth to the soft, buttery peas. The dish is not only incredibly easy to make but also versatile, allowing for multiple variations and dietary adaptations without compromising on taste. Whether you’re serving it as a side for roasted meats, grilled seafood, or as part of a vegetarian meal with substitutes, this recipe fits seamlessly into any menu.
Ingredients Needed For This Green Peas and Bacon Recipe
To make the perfect green peas and bacon dish, you will need:
- 250g (8.8 oz) green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 100g (3.5 oz) bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 5g (1 tsp) fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions For This Green Peas and Bacon Recipe
- Prepare the bacon – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy and golden brown. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the aromatics – Add the olive oil and butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once the butter melts, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the peas – Add the green peas to the skillet. If using frozen peas, cook for 4–5 minutes until heated through. If using fresh peas, allow them to cook for about 6–7 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients – Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, stirring to mix it evenly with the peas. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Final touches – Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own.
Variations and Dietary Substitutes
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, replace the bacon and butter with plant-based alternatives:
- Bacon substitute: Use 100g (3.5 oz) of smoked tempeh, finely chopped, or 50g (1.75 oz) of coconut bacon. Sauté the tempeh or coconut bacon in 15ml (1 tbsp) of olive oil until crispy.
- Butter substitute: Swap the butter for 15g (1 tbsp) of plant-based butter or increase the olive oil to 30ml (2 tbsp).
Method: Follow the same instructions but cook the tempeh or coconut bacon first, then remove it before continuing with the onions and garlic. Add it back in at the end, as you would with traditional bacon.
Low-Carb & Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version, replace the green peas with lower-carb vegetables while maintaining the same flavors:
- Pea substitute: Use 200g (7 oz) of chopped zucchini or asparagus.
- Method: Cook the zucchini or asparagus in the skillet for about 5–6 minutes until tender before adding the bacon back in.
Dairy-Free Option
To keep the dish dairy-free, simply omit the butter and replace it with an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as the bacon and any added ingredients (like seasonings) are free from gluten-containing additives.
Nutritional Benefits of Green Peas and Bacon
Not only is this dish a delicious addition to your table, but it also provides several nutritional benefits. Green peas are a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. These nutrients support immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.
Bacon, while often considered indulgent, offers a good amount of protein and essential fats that provide energy. When consumed in moderation, bacon can contribute to a balanced diet, especially when paired with nutrient-rich vegetables like peas. The fats in bacon can also help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins present in the peas.
Health Tip:
To make this dish even healthier, consider using turkey bacon, which is lower in fat and calories but still offers a satisfying smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Green peas and bacon can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile dish suitable for different occasions. Here are a few ideas for incorporating this recipe into your meal planning:
- As a side dish for grilled meats: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled steak, chicken, or pork chops, adding a light yet flavorful contrast to the richness of the meats.
- With a hearty breakfast: Serve this dish alongside scrambled eggs or a poached egg for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. The bacon and peas combine perfectly with eggs to create a savory, indulgent meal.
- As a topping for pasta: Toss this green peas and bacon mixture into pasta for a quick and tasty meal. The peas bring a natural sweetness that complements the rich, smoky bacon.
- As part of a holiday spread: This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, adding color and flavor to your holiday table.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
This green peas and bacon recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with both adults and children alike. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich, smoky bacon creates a universally appealing flavor profile. The recipe is also flexible, allowing you to adjust it based on your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for a quick and easy side dish to elevate your dinner, this recipe delivers both flavor and ease. It’s the kind of dish that people will ask for seconds of, with the bacon providing a satisfying crunch and the peas offering a burst of sweetness.
Green peas and bacon are a classic pairing that never goes out of style. This simple, quick-to-make dish offers a blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied. It’s a versatile recipe that fits into various diets and is easily adaptable to your personal taste. Whether you stick to the original or try out the variations, you’re sure to love the result.
