Snap Peas: An Easy Summer Side

I've mentioned numerous times how much I love warm weather and all of the wonderful things that come with it. Every week there is a larger variety of produce available at the farmers' market and I've loved trying new dishes that utilize the best of what's in season. Fortunately both Gavin and I love summer squash (zucchini, patty pans, yellow squash) since I have bought it at least once or twice a week for the past few weeks. But even though it is delicious, it's nice to switch things up every once in awhile. There are a variety of fresh beans available now; green beans being the most common and popular. Also available are snap peas, which are delicious and sweet when fresh and in season. Snap peas and snow peas are often thought of as a somewhat unnecessary addition to Asian stirfries. They are usually mixed in with pre-made Asian vegetable medleys and aren't really that good. But fresh snap peas are thick and sweet and full of flavor. This easy side dish recipe has a slightly Asian feel because of the fresh ginger but goes well alongside any grilled meat or other summer entree. The fresh ginger has a nice somewhat spicy bite that complements the sweetness of the snap peas and the shallots. This is a great new side dish to try if you're at all like me and tend to get into side dish ruts, while also taking advantage of the great produce available in the summer.

Snap Peas with Ginger and Shallots

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
•  3/4 - 1 pound fresh snap peas
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and pepper

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the shallots and ginger, sauteing until the shallots are soft, about 5 minutes.
Trim any tough stems off of the snap peas.
Add them to the shallots and ginger and toss to combine.
Saute for a couple of minutes and then add the water.
Simmer, uncovered, for about 8 minutes until the snap peas are crisp tender.
The water should evaporate completely. If the pans starts to get dry before the snap peas are done, add a little more water.
Season with salt and pepper.

For a printable recipe click here.