Are you tired of boring vegetable sides that put everyone to sleep? Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering combination that will have your family and guests begging for seconds! This Pearl Onions, Peas, and Bacon recipe is not just a side dish—it's a flavor explosion that combines the sweetness of pearl onions, the freshness of peas, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a culinary masterpiece that proves vegetables can be the star of the show.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound pearl onions, peeled
- 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pearl onions by peeling them carefully. If using fresh pearl onions, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to make peeling easier, then shock in ice water.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, rendering out the fat. Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add butter and melt completely. Add peeled pearl onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the peas to the skillet with the pearl onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring gently to ensure even heating. If using frozen peas, they will cook quickly.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the pearl onions and peas just before serving, allowing the bacon to retain its crunch.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish that combines sweet, salty, and savory flavors.
Tips
- Peeling Hack: To make peeling pearl onions easier, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water. The skins will slip off effortlessly.
- Bacon Perfection: Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to render out maximum fat and achieve that perfect crispy texture. Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon, preserving the flavorful drippings.
- Caramelization is Key: When sautéing pearl onions, resist the urge to stir constantly. Let them sit for a minute or two to develop beautiful golden-brown edges.
- Frozen Pea Tip: If using frozen peas, don't thaw them first. Add them directly to the hot skillet for the best texture and to prevent mushiness.
- Seasoning Secret: Add salt and pepper at the end of cooking to prevent the onions from becoming tough and to ensure bright, fresh flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately to maintain the bacon's crispiness and the vegetables' perfect texture. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 162kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
