Green-Pea Pate
Description
This vibrant Green-Pea Pate is a delightful French-inspired appetizer that brings a fresh, garden-fresh flavor to your table. The base of sweet green peas is softened with onions and fresh thyme, then blended with butter and cream cheese to create a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture. The result is a bright, herbaceous spread that balances earthy sweetness with savory richness. It is an ideal starter for spring gatherings, elegant dinner parties, or a light lunch. Serve it chilled alongside toasted French bread, crisp crackers, or cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this versatile pate is sure to become a favorite for entertaining or casual snacking.Ingredients
Directions
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In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and saut until translucent but not browned, about 3-5 minutes.
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Stir in the green peas, water, and thyme leaves.
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Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the peas are just tender, about 3-5 minutes.
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Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked peas and onions to a food processor fitted with a chopping blade.
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Reserve the cooking liquid from the saucepan.
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Process the peas until finely chopped.
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Add the cream cheese, salt, and white pepper to the processor.
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Process until the mixture is spreadable and fairly smooth.
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If the mixture is too stiff, add the reserved cooking liquid a tablespoon at a time while processing until desired consistency is reached.
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Spoon the pate into 2 custard cups or small crocks.
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Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 30 minutes.
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To serve, place the cup or crock of pate on a serving plate.
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Surround with toasted bread slices, crackers, or cucumber slices.
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Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 106.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.0g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.9g5%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 43.9mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.0g5%
- Dietary Fiber 5.6g23%
- Sugars 6.2g
- Protein 5.2g11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftover pate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions: If fresh peas are unavailable, you can use frozen peas (do not thaw before cooking). Dried thyme can be used instead of fresh, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
Tip: For a smoother texture, you can strain the processed peas through a fine-mesh sieve, though some texture is traditional for this rustic style.
Serving: This pate is best served chilled. It pairs well with sharp cheddar crackers or plain baguette slices.