Sautéed Green Peas and Bacon with Mint and Lemon

This delightful dish combines the sweetness of sautéed green peas with the savory crunch of bacon, enhanced by fresh mint and a hint of lemon. The balance between the smoky bacon and the bright, fresh flavors makes it a perfect side dish for any meal. It's easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
• 4 strips of bacon, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
2. Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the green peas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender (if using frozen peas, they will need less time).
5. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix well.
6. Add the chopped mint, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and heat through for another minute.
7. Serve warm as a side dish.