Canned Black Eyed Pea Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and utterly delicious vegetarian recipe, canned black-eyed peas are an absolute gem to keep in your pantry. This recipe transforms simple canned black-eyed peas into a flavorful dish packed with vibrant spices, fresh vegetables, and comforting textures.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just someone who loves quick and wholesome meals, this recipe is designed to be easy, satisfying, and adaptable to your taste buds.

Black-eyed peas are not only budget-friendly but also a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them an excellent meat-free option. In this post, I’ll guide you through a straightforward way to create a delicious vegetarian meal using canned black-eyed peas, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish.

Plus, you’ll find tips on how to customize it and ideas to serve it up in style!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This canned black-eyed pea recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, flavorful, and healthy vegetarian meal. Using canned peas means you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

The recipe combines fresh aromatics like garlic and onions with a medley of spices, creating layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.

It’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it as a stew, toss it with rice, or even use it as a filling for wraps or stuffed vegetables. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and plant-based protein, making it a nourishing choice for all dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Can opener
• Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients. Drain and rinse the canned black-eyed peas thoroughly to reduce sodium and remove excess starch. Chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and tomato.
2. Heat the olive oil. Place your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic and bell pepper. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pepper softens slightly.
4. Spice it up. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried thyme. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, cooking for about 1 minute to release their aromas.
5. Incorporate tomato and peas. Add the chopped tomato and stir for 2 minutes until it starts breaking down. Then add the drained black-eyed peas, mixing everything together.
6. Pour in vegetable broth. Add the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
7. Season to taste. Add salt and black pepper as needed. If you want a little brightness, stir in the lemon juice right before removing from heat.
8. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

“If you want to add extra veggies, try stirring in some chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost!”

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme. For a smoky twist, add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.

You can also swap out the vegetable broth for coconut milk for a creamier version with a subtle tropical flavor.

Want to make this recipe more filling? Toss in cooked quinoa or brown rice, or serve it over mashed sweet potatoes.

For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This canned black-eyed pea dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm cornbread for a comforting meal.

It also makes a delicious filling for wraps or pita pockets, paired with fresh veggies and your favorite sauces.

For a light and refreshing contrast, try pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed greens like collard or mustard greens. If you want to add some texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian ideas? Check out my Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the hearty Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This canned black-eyed pea recipe is a go-to for anyone seeking a quick, nutritious, and flavorful vegetarian meal. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, while its rich spices and fresh ingredients lend a satisfying depth of flavor.

Whether you’re new to cooking with black-eyed peas or a seasoned bean lover, this recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy this versatile legume without any hassle.

Remember, you can always customize the recipe to your liking by adding your favorite herbs, veggies, or spices. And if you enjoyed this, be sure to explore other creative recipes like my Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or the delicious Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe for more flavorful dishes.

Happy cooking!

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