My family is growing like a garden of sweet peas! My own children have met their beloved partners, who have brought us to meet to their own extended families, and we could not be happier.
So this past weekend we found ourselves in attendance at an annual Labor Day party in the middle of Pennsylvania. Lasting late into the night, there was more delicious food than the eye could see, a climbing structure for the kids, a blessedly beautiful bocce court, and an annual tournament for all. We sat happily among everyone on the sidelines, absorbing the rules of the game, enjoying the earnest efforts of the younger players, applauding the antics of the dozen or more toddlers, and feeling very appreciative of the love, warmth, and hospitality.
Among the many dishes, I discovered a pea salad, which I had to research afterwards since I had never seen one before. Can you believe it? But it’s true. I found many different pea salads, including this one, which I adapted from a Whole Foods recipe.
Remember that peas are a kind of bean, which means that they are rich in protein as well as fiber and phytonutrients. But also please remember that no food is worth eating for its nutrient content unless it tastes delicious. And that’s the best reason to eat peas with mint and lemon. So enjoy!
4 cups fresh English peas, shelled
1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp. fresh mint, chopped
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper, ground
1 shallot OR 3 chives OR 1 green onion, chopped finely
zest (finely grated) + juice (approx. 2 Tbsp.) of 1 lemon
- Heat olive oil until swirling and fragrant.
- Add shallot (or chives or onion), and heat 1-2 minutes on medium heat just until becoming translucent.
- Remove from heat, add peas, and stir until well coated.
- Add mint, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
- Pour into serving bowl, and sprinkle with lemon juice. Serves 6-8.