Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Sweet, tender green peas take center stage in this Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew. This dish brings together fresh vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and zucchinis, all simmered in a rich olive oil base. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this stew is not only hearty but also incredibly flavorful. It highlights the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its wholesome ingredients and vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and olive oil, this stew is a nutritious option for any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a comforting dish that impresses.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or feta cheese.
• Vegetarian Delight: A perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans looking for satisfying meals.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew, gather your kitchen tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large cooking pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large cooking pot: Ideal for simmering all the ingredients together evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Helps gently stir the stew without scratching your pot.
• Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

Sweet green peas, stewed along with carrots, tomatoes, zucchinis, potatoes, dill, and plenty of olive oil. A truly healthy and delicious vegetarian meal.

Main Ingredients

• 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium-sized (120 grams) red onion (minced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 700 grams (1.5 pounds) green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 500 grams (1.1 pounds) potatoes (peeled and cut into 3-4 cm (1¼-1½-inch) pieces)
• 3-4 very small baby or small zucchinis (cut into 3 cm (1¼-inch) thick pieces)
• 2 medium (130 grams) carrots (cut into 1 cm (⅓-inch) thick slices)
• 3 teaspoons tomato paste
• 2 medium-large (400 grams) ripe tomatoes (diced (skin, pulp, and all))
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped)
• sea salt to taste
• 400 ml hot water or vegetable stock
• feta cheese to serve with

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized cooking pot over moderate heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the minced red onion and finely chopped garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Now add the potatoes, zucchini, peas, and carrots. Raise the heat to medium-high.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about one minute until well combined.

Step 6: Add Fresh Tomatoes

Add diced fresh tomatoes along with sea salt and ground pepper. Stir well.

Step 7: Simmer

Cook for an additional two minutes before pouring in the hot water or vegetable stock.

Step 8: Cover and Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for 40 to 50 minutes until the vegetables are tender to your liking.

Step 9: Final Touches

Stir in the remaining olive oil and fresh dill. Taste for seasoning; adjust as needed.

Step 10: Cook Partially Covered

Cook partly covered over moderate heat for another 10 minutes until there’s mostly oil left in the pot.

Step 11: Let Stand

Remove from heat. Let the stew stand in the pot for about 15 minutes before serving.

Step 12: Serve

Serve hot with a generous piece of feta cheese on top alongside some crusty bread!

How to Serve Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Serving Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is an opportunity to enhance its flavors and make your dining experience delightful. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement this hearty dish perfectly.

Pair with Feta Cheese

• Adding a generous piece of feta cheese brings a creamy texture that balances the stew’s flavors. Crumble it on top just before serving for an added treat.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve the stew with crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the rich sauce. A warm loaf will soak up the delicious juices, making each bite satisfying.

Garnish with Fresh Dill

• Sprinkle some fresh dill over your serving for a burst of freshness. It enhances the herbaceous notes already in the stew.

Serve with Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy flavor, elevating the overall taste and providing a nice contrast.

Enjoy with a Side Salad

• Pairing it with a refreshing Greek salad can provide a crunchy texture and vibrant flavors. The salad’s tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives complement the stew beautifully.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Including lemon wedges on the side allows diners to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their stew. This adds brightness and balances the richness of the olive oil.

How to Perfect Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

To achieve the best version of your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew, consider these helpful tips that will ensure optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peas, ripe tomatoes, and crisp vegetables enhance flavor significantly. Whenever possible, opt for seasonal produce.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Adding sea salt gradually helps prevent over-seasoning and allows you to fine-tune flavors to your liking.
• Cook slowly: Allowing the stew to simmer gently ensures that all vegetables become tender and absorb flavors fully. Patience is key for depth in taste.
• Use quality olive oil: The type of olive oil used can greatly affect the dish’s flavor profile. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer taste.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stew to sit after cooking helps meld flavors together even more. This resting period is essential for achieving great taste.
• Experiment with herbs: While dill is traditional, feel free to experiment by adding other herbs like parsley or mint for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

Complementing your Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew with side dishes can enhance your meal further. Here are some delicious options:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil adds freshness and crunch.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill provides a cool contrast to the warm stew.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying side that pairs well with the stew’s flavors.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful rolls filled with rice and herbs make an excellent hand-held side that complements Greek cuisine beautifully.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled seasonal vegetables adds smokiness and pairs well with the sweetness of peas in the stew.
6. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up stew or spreading tzatziki, enhancing your meal experience.
7. Olives Platter: An assortment of marinated olives provides salty bites that contrast perfectly against the sweetness of peas.
8. Spanakopita: These flaky pastries filled with spinach and feta create a delightful combination when served alongside the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while making Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew. Here are some tips.

• Overcooking the vegetables: This stew benefits from tender vegetables, but overdoing it can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on cooking times and test for tenderness.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh dill adds bright flavor to this dish. Avoid using dried herbs as they lack the vibrant taste that fresh ones provide.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Every batch can taste different. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to ensure a well-seasoned dish.
• Using low-quality olive oil: The quality of olive oil influences the stew’s flavor. Invest in good extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the stew sit after cooking helps develop flavors. Avoid rushing this step for a richer taste experience.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day after flavors meld together.

How do I customize Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also include different herbs or spices based on your preference.

Is Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This stew is naturally vegan and packed with nutritious ingredients.

What can I serve with Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew?

Pair this stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew is not only delicious but also offers great versatility. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, this dish is perfect for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!

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Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Traditional Greek Green Peas Stew, a vibrant and wholesome dish that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This stew features sweet, tender green peas simmered with an array of fresh vegetables, including carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes, all brought together in a rich olive oil base. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this hearty stew is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Whether served as a main or side dish, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread and feta cheese. Enjoy this vegetarian delight that freezes well for easy meals later!

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Ingredients

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• 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium red onion (minced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 700 grams green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 500 grams potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 3–4 small zucchinis (sliced)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 3 teaspoons tomato paste
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes (diced)
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
• Sea salt to taste
• 400 ml hot water or vegetable stock

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over moderate heat.
2. Sauté minced onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add potatoes, zucchini, peas, and carrots; cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste; cook for one minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes and season with salt; stir well.
6. Pour in hot water or stock; bring to a simmer.
7. Cover and simmer on low heat for 40-50 minutes until vegetables are tender.
8. Stir in remaining olive oil and dill; adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg