WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
Sweet, grassy snow peas are the star component in this superspeedy side. We knew we wanted to caramelize them a bit to highlight and amplify their delicate flavor. First we tried a traditional stir- fry technique, but the constant stirring left us with greasy, overcooked pods without any browning. Adding a sprinkle of sugar and cooking the peas without stirring for a short time helped to achieve the flavorful sear we were after, and then we continued to cook them, stirring constantly, until they were just crisp-tender. To boost flavor, we cleared the center of the pan and quickly sautéed a mixture of minced shallot, oil, and lemon zest before stirring everything together. A squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkling of parsley just before serving kept this dish fresh and bright. Chives, tarragon, cilantro, or basil can be substituted for the parsley.
SERVES: 4
TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest plus 1 teaspoon juice
- Salt and pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon sugar
- 12 ounces snow peas, strings removed
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS:
- PREPARE THE SHALLOT MIXTURE
- Combine 1 teaspoon oil, shallot, and lemon zest in a bowl.
- SEASON THE SNOW PEAS
- In a separate bowl, combine ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon pepper, and sugar.
- Heat remaining 2 teaspoons oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until just smoking.
- Add snow peas, sprinkle with salt mixture, and cook, without stirring, for 30 seconds.
- Stir briefly, then cook, without stirring, for 30 seconds.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until peas are crisp-tender, 1 to 2 minutes.
- ADD THE SHALLOT MIXTURE AND LEMON JUICE
- Push peas to sides of the skillet.
- Add shallot mixture to the center and cook, mashing the mixture into the skillet, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir shallot mixture into peas.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- SERVE
- Serve the snow peas with lemon and shallot immediately.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious snow peas with lemon and shallot!
