Name: Canned Peas and Carrots
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 can Canned peas and carrots; ½ cup Water; 1 Tbs Whole butter; 1 teaspoon White granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon Lemon juice; ½ teaspoon Onion powder; ¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes

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The moment I open a can of peas and carrots, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where simple meals ignited joy. The Canned Peas and Carrots dish is more than just a side; it’s a piece of nostalgia, a comforting blend that reminds me of family dinners and laughter around the table. I remember my mom preparing this quick and easy dish, her hands skillfully mixing the vibrant vegetables in a pot. It was the perfect accompaniment to everything, from roasted chicken to hearty meatloaf. Every bite was a delightful crunch, perfectly seasoned and warm, bringing a smile to my face. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up something that tastes as good as it feels. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Canned Peas and Carrots!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Large Pot

What You’ll Enjoy About This Canned Peas and Carrots

Quick and Easy

One of the things I love most about Canned Peas and Carrots is how effortless it is to prepare. In less than fifteen minutes, you can have a lovely side dish ready to serve. This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Versatility

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty pasta, it complements the flavors without overpowering them. It also works well in salads and casseroles, adding a delicious crunch.

Health Benefits

Both peas and carrots are packed with nutrients. They’re good sources of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Incorporating Canned Peas and Carrots into your meals can help round out your diet, making it not just tasty but also nutritious.

Budget-Friendly

Using canned veggies is an economical choice, making Canned Peas and Carrots a smart addition to any meal plan. You can feed your family a healthy dish without breaking the bank, and they’re often on sale at grocery stores.

Minimal Cleanup

Another standout feature of this dish is that it requires very little cleanup. With just one saucepan needed, you can make a fantastic side without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Child-Friendly

Kids love the sweet crunch of peas and the tender sweetness of carrots. It’s a great way to introduce them to vegetables without overwhelming them. Plus, it’s colorful and fun on the plate!

Ingredients Required for Canned Peas and Carrots

In this delightful dish, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a lovely flavor profile. The combination of peas and carrots brings sweetness and a touch of earthiness, while the butter adds a rich creaminess that binds everything together. Water is essential for cooking, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld, while a hint of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies. Together, these ingredients create a comforting side that you can enjoy any day of the year.

Canned peas and carrots: A convenient option, packed with flavor and nutrition. Canned versions retain their sweetness and are ready to use. One 8.5-ounce can is perfect for a small side dish.
Water: This acts as the base for steaming the veggies, helping them heat through and ensuring they’re tender yet still flavorful.
Whole butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish, elevating the simple flavors of the vegetables.
White granulated sugar: Just a teaspoon brightens the flavors of the peas and carrots, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Lemon juice: This adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the butter.
Onion powder: Provides a subtle depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the vegetables.
Red pepper flakes: A pinch adds a delightful kick, balancing the sweetness with a hint of heat.

Recipe Directions for Canned Peas and Carrots

Making Canned Peas and Carrots is as easy as pie! With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious side ready to complement your meal. Let’s get started!

Begin by gathering your ingredients. It’s always nice to have everything at your fingertips when you start cooking. Grab your can of peas and carrots, water, butter, sugar, lemon juice, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
Open the can of peas and carrots and drain the liquid. This is important to ensure your dish doesn’t become too watery. Give it a little shake to remove any excess.
In a small saucepan, combine the drained peas and carrots with water. This will help them steam and heat through. Pour in about half a cup of clean water for perfect consistency.
Next, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan. Watching it melt as you heat the mixture is one of my favorite parts!
Sprinkle in the teaspoon of sugar and stir gently. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making each bite a little more delightful.
Now, drizzle in the lemon juice. This brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing note that balances the flavors beautifully.
Next, season with onion powder and red pepper flakes. The onion powder brings depth to the dish, while the red pepper flakes provide a lovely little kick. Adjust these to your taste.
Set the heat to medium and stir everything together. As it heats, you’ll notice the butter melting and the vegetables becoming warm and tender.
Keep stirring until everything is heated through and the dish begins to bubble gently. This usually takes around five to seven minutes.
Once bubbling, remove the pan from heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Sometimes a small pinch more of sugar or a dash of pepper flakes can make all the difference.
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Canned Peas and Carrots alongside your favorite main dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Temperature: Cooking on medium heat prevents the veggies from overcooking. You want them tender but still vibrant.
Flavor Boost: Adding a splash of soy sauce or a hint of garlic powder can introduce new flavors to your dish.
Mix and Match: Feel free to experiment with other canned vegetables, like corn or green beans, to create a colorful medley.
Fresh Alternatives: If you prefer fresh vegetables, you can easily substitute them. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they become tender.

Make It Your Own

Customization is key when it comes to making Canned Peas and Carrots your own. Here are some great tips to personalize this dish:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: While not ideal for texture, you can freeze this dish. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
Add Protein: Consider adding cooked green peas or chicken for a more filling option.
Seasonal Variations: In the spring, try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten the dish even further.

Perfect Pairings for Canned Peas and Carrots

When it comes to serving Canned Peas and Carrots, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Grilled Chicken: This dish complements grilled chicken beautifully, adding a sweet crunch to your meal.
Meatloaf: The comforting flavors of meatloaf paired with sweet peas and carrots create a perfect family dinner.
Rice Dishes: Serve alongside rice or quinoa for a wholesome and nutritious meal.
Vegetarian Options: Pair it with stuffed bell peppers or a hearty vegetable stew for a delightful vegetarian feast.
Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, bringing a pop of color to your table.
Leftover Usage: Use leftover Canned Peas and Carrots in salads or wraps for a quick, nutritious lunch option.
Storage Tips: Always store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Just be mindful of cooking time; fresh peas and carrots will take longer to become tender. Steam or boil them until they’re cooked through, then follow the rest of the instructions as outlined.

Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn or bell peppers to add variety. You can adjust seasoning according to the new ingredients to keep the flavors balanced. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility!

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about three days. To reheat, simply place them in a saucepan over low heat and stir until warmed through. You might want to add a tiny bit of water or butter to keep them moist.

Yes! This side dish is an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch over the weekend and portion it into containers for easy access throughout the week. It heats up wonderfully and pairs with various meals!

Conclusion

The Canned Peas and Carrots is a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor. With its ease of preparation and versatility, it’s a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give it a go and enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite!