For those looking to serve something fresh and creative at their next gathering, pea appetizers offer a delightful way to surprise guests with unique flavors. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to brighten up your usual get-togethers, try these innovative ideas featuring the humble yet versatile pea.
Peas add a pop of color and nutritional value to any dish, making them perfect for healthy appetizers that taste great and look fantastic. From elegant canapés to hearty dips, there's no end to what you can create with this little green gem.
One delightful recipe to try is pea and mint bruschetta. Toasted baguette slices provide the perfect base for a vibrant topping of fresh peas, mint, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of lemon zest. Combine 200g shelled fresh peas with 50g finely chopped fresh mint leaves, 2 cloves minced garlic, 30ml extra virgin olive oil, juice of half a lemon, salt, and pepper to taste.
Spoon the pea mixture onto your toasted baguette slices and garnish with an additional sprinkle of mint. This appetizer is so fresh and light that it's perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Another crowd-pleaser is a pea pesto dip. Blend 200g frozen peas (thawed), 50g pine nuts, 3 cloves garlic, a handful of basil leaves, 60ml olive oil, and salt to taste. This delightful dip can be served with crudités or toasted bread slices.
For those who enjoy a bit more substance in their appetizers, try pea and feta stuffed mushrooms. Clean 15-20 large mushrooms and remove the stalks. Then mix together 300g thawed frozen peas, 200g crumbled feta cheese, 3 cloves minced garlic, 50ml olive oil, salt, pepper, and a good pinch of red pepper flakes.
Stuff each mushroom cap with the pea-feta mixture and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until golden. These make for an incredibly satisfying bite-sized treat that's both elegant and filling.
And if you need something quick, pea guacamole is a fantastic option. Mash up 3 ripe avocados with the juice of one lime, add 200g fresh peas (cooked and cooled), and season with salt and pepper to taste. This twist on traditional guacamole offers an unexpected but delicious combination of flavors.