Smashed Black-Eyed Peas (Printable)

Creamy Mediterranean-style black-eyed peas with garlic, olive oil, and lemon. Perfect as a dip or hearty side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Legumes

01 - 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

→ Aromatics

02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Oils & Acids

03 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest

→ Seasonings

06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, optional
09 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked black-eyed peas and minced garlic.
02 - Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and cumin if using.
03 - Using a potato masher or fork, mash the mixture until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky for texture.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
06 - Serve as a dip with pita, crackers, or fresh vegetables, or as a hearty side dish.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick Prep: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
  • Dietary Friendly: Naturally vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free to suit various guest needs.
  • Versatile Texture: Can be served chunky and rustic or blended until completely smooth.
02 -
  • Texture Control: Stop mashing early if you prefer a chunkier, more textured side dish.
  • Freshness Matters: Using fresh lemon juice and zest provides a much brighter flavor than bottled alternatives.
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