Imagine a side dish so vibrant and unexpected that it turns ordinary meals into culinary adventures. This Onion Saffron Sweet Pea Relish with Orange Zest is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the delicate sweetness of peas, the luxurious warmth of saffron, and a bright citrus twist that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food enthusiast seeking something uniquely delicious, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with just a few simple ingredients.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet peas, fresh or frozen
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by finely chopping the onion, zesting the orange, and measuring out the saffron threads.
- In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 5 minutes to release their full flavor and golden color.
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat until it shimmers slightly.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet and sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the sweet peas to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions.
- Pour the saffron-infused water over the peas and onions, stirring to distribute the golden liquid evenly.
- Cook the mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the peas to become tender but still retain a bright green color.
- Sprinkle the fresh orange zest over the relish and season with salt to taste, gently folding to incorporate.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish, allowing the relish to cool slightly before serving.
Tips
- Saffron Selection: Use high-quality saffron threads for the most intense flavor and golden color. A little goes a long way!
- Onion Technique: Chop onions finely and sauté slowly to develop a sweet, mellow flavor without burning.
- Pea Perfection: If using frozen peas, don't thaw them first—add them directly to the skillet for the best texture.
- Zest Wisdom: Use a microplane or fine grater for the orange zest to get delicate, fragrant pieces without the bitter white pith.
- Serving Suggestions: This relish pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or as a vibrant topping for grain bowls.
- Make-Ahead Magic: The relish can be prepared up to a day in advance and gently reheated before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
