Canned Black Eyed Peas Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious

Black eyed peas are a classic and nutritious legume that can easily be transformed into a delicious vegetarian meal using canned beans. Whether you’re short on time or just want a wholesome dish that’s hearty and easy to prepare, this canned black eyed peas recipe is perfect for you.

It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.

This recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh herbs and spices to create a comforting bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Best of all, it requires minimal effort and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Let’s dive in and make a satisfying vegetarian dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Canned black eyed peas offer convenience without compromising flavor or nutrition. This recipe highlights how easy it is to whip up a wholesome, protein-rich meal with just a few ingredients.

It’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth. The earthy and slightly sweet taste of black eyed peas pairs beautifully with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a touch of acidity from tomatoes or lemon juice.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or exploring meat-free cooking, this recipe is a great way to incorporate legumes into your diet. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for batch cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

Equipment

• Large skillet or medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Bowl for rinsing canned peas

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients. Drain and rinse the canned black eyed peas thoroughly. Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Place your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft.
3. Add garlic and bell pepper. Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly tender.
4. Spice it up. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried thyme. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their flavors.
5. Add tomatoes and broth. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
6. Simmer the mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the liquid reduce slightly.
7. Incorporate black eyed peas. Add the rinsed black eyed peas to the skillet. Stir well and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the peas are heated through and the dish is thickened to your liking.
8. Season to taste. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Stir in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a bright, tangy finish.
9. Garnish and serve. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top, and serve warm. Enjoy your wholesome vegetarian black eyed peas!

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari instead of salt.

Experiment with different vegetables such as chopped kale, spinach, or diced carrots for added nutrition and texture. Adding greens near the end of cooking ensures they stay vibrant and fresh.

If you prefer a creamier texture, mash some of the peas with the back of a spoon before serving. This adds a lovely thickness without extra ingredients.

To make this recipe gluten-free and vegan, simply double-check your vegetable broth and spices for any additives.

Want to try a spicy twist? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce along with the cayenne pepper.

For an international flair, incorporate a bay leaf during simmering and remove before serving, or top with a dollop of plain yogurt or a vegan alternative for creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This canned black eyed peas dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and meal options. For a wholesome meal, serve it over steamed brown rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain.

You can also enjoy it alongside warm cornbread or whole grain flatbreads. A fresh green salad or sautéed greens like kale or Swiss chard will complement the earthy flavors perfectly.

For a heartier meal, add roasted root vegetables or a medley of grilled veggies on the side. This dish also works great as a filling for wraps or stuffed peppers.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or explore Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love for comforting classics.

Conclusion

This canned black eyed peas recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful vegetarian meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty legumes creates a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, it embraces the benefits of canned legumes while delivering rich taste and comforting textures.

With endless possibilities for customization and pairing, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. For more delicious plant-based recipes, why not try the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes?

Happy cooking and enjoy your wholesome vegetarian meals!

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