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If you love that classic combo of peas with mint but want something a bit more exciting, this recipe is for you! Spiced chorizo, onions, and garlic add a burst of flavor to this simple dish. It’s a fantastic side for grilled or baked meats and seafood, but hearty enough to turn into a meal with some rice. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes.
Liven up your meals with these flavorful Spicy Peas with Mint! They pair perfectly with juicy, tender baked chicken thighs. Serve them over white rice or nutty and satisfying brown rice. They’re also a fantastic complement to slightly sweet and caramelized roasted cabbage or a refreshing side dish for light and flaky baked cod.
Why You’ll Love This Peas With Mint Recipe?
- Packed with flavor: The sweet peas, fresh mint, spicy chorizo, and savory aromatics create a perfect balance of flavors.
- Super quick: This recipe couldn’t be easier and is ready in a flash.
- Versatile: Serve it as a satisfying side dish or a light main.
- Healthy option: Made with wholesome ingredients.
- Single serving: No more leftovers tempting you from the fridge!
Minty Peas
Minty peas are a beloved side dish in the United Kingdom, especially during spring and summer. The combination of sweet peas and refreshing mint is a timeless favorite. Our Spicy Peas with Mint recipe adds a unique twist to this classic! We introduce the savory and spicy flavors of crumbled chorizo, onions, and garlic, creating a depth of flavor and a touch of heat that elevates the whole dish.
This recipe stands out because it delivers a perfectly portioned single serving packed with flavor. The bright, fresh notes of mint and peas combine perfectly with the savory depth of chorizo and garlic, resulting in a satisfying dish that you can enjoy as a light meal on its own or pair with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor and nutritional benefits, including being rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s the highest-quality and least processed form of olive oil. If you prefer, light olive oil can be used as a substitute.
- Chorizo: Mexican chorizo, known for its ground pork base and spicy flavor from red peppers, is ideal for this recipe. If you prefer, substitute with another spicy sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Onions and Garlic: These are key for adding depth and flavor to the dish, so try not to skip them.
- Peas: You can use either canned peas, which should be rinsed and drained, or frozen peas that have been thawed.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves work best to provide a bright, fresh flavor. If unavailable, dried mint is an acceptable alternative.
- Rice: Either white or brown rice can be used, as long as it’s precooked.
- Cotija Cheese: If Cotija cheese is not available, feta cheese makes a good substitute due to its similar crumbly texture.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Switch: Replace mint with cilantro for a different herbal note.
- Extra Spice: Include chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for more heat.
- Meat-Free: Use mushrooms instead of chorizo for a vegetarian version.
- Lemony Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.
How To Make Spicy Peas With Mint
Start by heating oil in a small skillet. Brown the chorizo thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks, then drain on paper towels. Next, sauté the onions and garlic in the same skillet until softened. Add the peas, cook briefly, then stir in the cooked chorizo. Finally, remove from heat, toss with fresh mint, and serve. For added richness, top with crumbled Cotija cheese and enjoy over rice.
RELATED: Four Crustless Quiche Recipes That Are So Tasty, You Won’t Even Miss The Crust
Expert Tips
- Crumble the chorizo: Break up the chorizo as it cooks for even browning and better flavor distribution.
- Don’t overcook peas: You want them vibrant green and crisp-tender.
- Fresh mint is best: Dried mint won’t have the same bright flavor. Try to use fresh if possible.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A touch of acidity at the end brightens up the whole dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
The peas are best cooked just before serving, but you can cook the chorizo ahead.
Absolutely! Try bell peppers, diced carrots, or mushrooms.
Yes, but make sure to use a larger pan.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
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RELATED: 15 Easy Dessert Recipes For One
Spicy Peas With Mint For One
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 6 ounces chorizo -removed from casing and crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic -minced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 mint leaves -torn
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2-3 tablespoons crumbled Cotija cheese
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a small skillet on medium-low heat.
- Add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 10 minutes, breaking up any large pieces.
- Remove the cooked chorizo from the pan and place on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain.
- Place the skillet back on the stove and add the onions and garlic to the pan and cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the peas and cook, stirring occasionally for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked chorizo. Remove pan from the heat and stir in the mint.
- Serve over rice and top with crumbled Cotija cheese
Notes
- Crumble the chorizo: Break up the chorizo as it cooks for even browning and better flavor distribution.
- Don’t overcook peas: You want them vibrant green and crisp-tender.
- Fresh mint is best: Dried mint won’t have the same bright flavor. Try to use fresh if possible.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A touch of acidity at the end brightens up the whole dish.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
