Zesty Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts: Your New Favorite Healthy Snack & Appetizer

Discover the vibrant taste of lemon-y smashed pea toasts, featuring a creamy, herb-infused pea spread on crispy toasted bread, garnished with fresh toppings. This delightful recipe is perfect for a satisfying snack, elegant appetizer, or a light and nutritious meal.

The Unexpected Rise of Pea Toast: A Culinary Revelation

Just the other night, my partner Dan had the TV on in our condo. Our “TV room” connects seamlessly to the kitchen, creating one large, open space. This often leads to a delightful cacophony of clanging dishes, running water, and the occasional booming voice of a newscaster – a constant sound competition, as I like to call it!

I’m not usually one to sit down and watch live television; I tend to be more of a dedicated Netflix series binge-watcher. So, when Dan has the TV on, I usually just let the different vibrations of mumbled dialogue and commercials blend into the background. That is, until something truly unexpected cut through the noise.

“Hey,” Dan called out, a smirk playing on his lips, “have you heard that smashed pea toast is the new avocado toast?”

“What?!” I shrieked, suddenly fully engaged, my eyes snapping towards the screen. It was as if the person speaking on camera had somehow known I was just about to share my very own recipe for these incredible Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts with all of you this week!

Why Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts Are Your Go-To for Brighter Days

Spoiler alert: these Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts are the quintessential combination to usher in spring and brighter, lighter days! You might be thinking, “Peas on toast? Really?” And my answer is a resounding YES, absolutely peas!

Forget everything you thought you knew about this humble legume. You are going to fall head over heels for this new, slightly quirky toast combination. It’s a simple classic elevated, packing an unexpected punch of protein, fiber, and essential nourishment into every bite. It’s light, it’s refreshing, and it’s bursting with fresh flavors that will awaken your palate.

And just to set the record straight: I was smashing peas on toast long before that kid on the tube ever thought of it, mkay? So, if you happen to catch wind of the latest media buzz about a new pea toast craze, remember, you saw it here first, my friends! This truly is a Flora & Vino exclusive.

Giving Peas the Love They Deserve: More Than Just a Side Dish

I must admit, I don’t give peas enough credit, or rather, enough spotlight, on my culinary platform. They’re often pigeonholed as the “veggie no one wants to eat as a kid.” However, I have a distinct memory of eagerly gobbling up my frozen peas and carrot blend with a voracity that might have seemed a tad unusual for a child. Clearly, I was never in a position where I was asked to “finish my peas, please,” before being excused from the dinner table.

Beyond childhood anecdotes, peas are actually a powerhouse of nutrition! They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegan and vegetarian diets. Furthermore, they’re rich in vital vitamins, including Vitamin K, C, and several B vitamins, as well as essential minerals like manganese, folate, and iron. Their high fiber content also aids in digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making this toast a truly satisfying option.

So, even if your inner child can’t quite relate to my pea-loving tendencies, I am confident that you are still going to absolutely adore this incredibly fresh and flavorful spread. It truly transforms the humble pea into a gourmet delight.

Crafting Your Perfect Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts: Essential Ingredients

The beauty of this lemon-y pea smash lies in its incredible simplicity and the fact that it primarily utilizes a handful of vibrant green ingredients that you likely already have stashed in your refrigerator or freezer. Gathering what you need for this recipe is half the fun!

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dreamy, green concoction:

• Frozen Green Peas: You definitely have a bag of these tucked away in the deepest corners of your freezer. They are convenient, affordable, and just as nutritious as fresh peas. Their mild sweetness forms the perfect base for our spread.
• Runny Tahini: This sesame paste is key to achieving that luscious, creamy texture without needing any dairy. It also adds a subtle nutty depth that beautifully complements the peas and lemon. Ensure it’s runny for easy blending.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: This is where the “lemon-y” magic truly happens! Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, zesty tang that cuts through the richness and elevates all the flavors. Don’t skimp on this; fresh is best!
• Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic powder adds a foundational savory note without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the peas and herbs.
• Your Favorite Fresh Herbs (e.g., Parsley, Mint, Dill): This is where you can truly customize the “herb-y” aspect. Parsley is a classic choice, but a mix of mint or dill can add an extra layer of freshness and complexity. Choose what you love!
• Fresh Lemon Zest: For an intense burst of lemon aroma and flavor, a bit of zest goes a long way. It really brightens up the entire spread.
• Himalayan Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony. Adjust to your personal preference for the perfect balance.
• Toasted Bread: Your canvas for this masterpiece! Choose your favorite variety – sourdough, whole wheat, or a gluten-free option – toasted to golden perfection.
• Green Onion (Scallions), sliced: For a mild oniony bite and a beautiful pop of color as a garnish.
• White Sesame Seeds: Adds a delicate crunch and a touch of elegance to your finished toasts.
• Karen’s Naturals Just Peas (freeze-dried): A fantastic optional topping for an extra layer of crunch and concentrated pea flavor.

Simply blend it all up, and you’ll be left with a deliciously creamy, vibrantly green spread that gives even the most beloved avocado toast some serious, dreamy competition. The natural mild sweetness of the peas, combined with the bright lemon, tangy tahini, and fragrant herbs, creates an unforgettable flavor profile that is both complex and incredibly satisfying.

Elevate Your Toast Experience: The Magic of Freeze-Dried Peas

You’ve probably experimented with freeze-dried fruits, adding them to your cereals or smoothies for an extra burst of flavor and crunch. But have you ever ventured into the world of freeze-dried vegetables? If not, you’re in for a delightful surprise!

Karen’s Naturals Just Peas are an exceptional example. As their name suggests, they contain just one ingredient: peas! These aren’t just any peas; they are picked at their peak freshness and then carefully dried at low temperatures. This meticulous process ensures that their natural flavor, vibrant color, and essential nutrients are preserved, making them an incredibly wholesome and versatile ingredient.

Beyond being a fantastic crunchy snack straight from the bag, Karen’s Naturals Just Peas are a culinary secret weapon. Sprinkle them generously over salads for added texture and a burst of savory sweetness, toss them into grain bowls for a nutritious crunch, or, as we’re doing here, use them as the ultimate topper for your Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts. Their concentrated pea flavor and satisfying crispiness provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy smashed pea spread, adding another dimension to this already delightful dish.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts

The versatility of these Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts is truly one of their greatest assets. The next time you find yourself reaching for the toaster, bypass your usual spreads and opt for a generous dollop of this bright, flavorful lemon-y smash on your chosen toasted canvas. The possibilities for enjoying them are endless:

• Savory Breakfast: Start your day with a nutritious and satisfying meal. The protein and fiber will keep you full and energized.
• Nutritious Snack: When hunger strikes between meals, these toasts offer a healthy and delicious alternative to less wholesome options.
• Elegant Appetizer: Slice the toasts into smaller, bite-sized portions and arrange them beautifully on a platter for a crowd-pleasing starter at your next gathering.
• Light Meal: For a quick and easy lunch or dinner, load up your toasts with plenty of garnishes. I personally love piling mine high with copious amounts of fresh green onion and those delightful Karen’s Naturals Just Peas for an irresistible crunch.

But wait, this incredible Lemon & Herb Pea Smash isn’t just for toast! Its creamy texture and vibrant flavor make it incredibly versatile. Get creative with how you use this green goodness:

• Cracker Topper: Spread it onto your favorite crackers for a quick and satisfying snack.
• Veggie Dip: Serve it alongside an array of fresh-cut vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber for a healthy and flavorful dip.
• Salad Booster: Dollop a spoonful onto your favorite salads for an extra layer of creamy texture and flavor.
• Sandwich & Wrap Spread: Use it as a vibrant and nutritious alternative to mayonnaise or other spreads in your sandwiches and wraps. It adds moisture, flavor, and a healthy dose of plant-based goodness.

The options are truly limitless, making this lemon-y pea smash a fantastic staple to have on hand for countless culinary adventures.

Get Smashing! Share Your Creations with Flora & Vino

I am absolutely thrilled for you to try these Lemon & Herb Smashed Pea Toasts! If you do give this recipe a whirl, please don’t hesitate to let me know how it turned out. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps me continue to create more delicious and “yummy” recipes for you to enjoy.

Be sure to leave me a comment, a star rating, and a review below so I can use your feedback to create more wonderful dishes.

Also, give me a shout-out on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to show me your beautiful creations. I love seeing what you make!

Don’t forget to check out my Pinterest page to pin more delectable recipes like this one to make later.

For more totally awesome TOAST! recipes that push the boundaries of deliciousness, be sure to explore my Purple Sweet Potato Hummus Toasts, my comforting Apple Pie Avocado Toasts with Easy Date Caramel, and my savory Romesco Roasted Cauliflower Toasts. Each offers a unique and flavorful toast experience!

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XO Lauren

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This post is brought to you by Karen’s Naturals, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!