16 Mar 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1 large zucchini
1 cup peas
2 tbsp lemon zest
Experience a burst of fresh flavors with our Smashed Peas with Chargrilled Zucchini and Lemon recipe. This delightful dish combines the vibrant green of peas with the smoky char of zucchini and the zesty kick of lemon, making it perfect for a light and refreshing meal.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat it dry.
- Slice the zucchini lengthwise into 0.5 cm (approximately 1/4 inch) thick slices.
2. Chargrill the Zucchini:
- Preheat a grill pan or a barbecue grill over medium-high heat.
- Lightly brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the zucchini slices on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until you have nice grill marks and the zucchini is tender. Remove from the grill and set aside.
3. Cook the Peas:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Add the peas to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender yet still bright green.
- Drain the peas and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Smash the Peas:
- Place the cooked peas in a large bowl.
- Using a fork or a potato masher, gently smash the peas until they are partially mashed, leaving some whole for texture.
- Add the lemon zest to the smashed peas and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Lay the chargrilled zucchini slices on a serving platter.
- Spoon the smashed peas over the zucchini slices.
6. Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle more lemon zest on top if desired.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or a light appetizer.
Tips:
- Choose fresh and firm zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- To achieve the perfect char on the zucchini, ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated before placing the zucchini slices.
- For a creamier texture, you can mash the peas slightly before mixing them with the chargrilled zucchini.
- If you prefer a more vibrant taste, add a little extra lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Season the dish generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Savor the unique combination of flavors and textures in this dish. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the sophisticated taste, makes this Smashed Peas with Chargrilled Zucchini and Lemon a must-try. Enjoy it as a side dish or even a light main course, perfect for any season.