Greek Green Peas Stew

Close your eyes and imagine this: tender green peas, sweet carrots, soft potatoes, and delicate zucchini swimming in a fragrant tomato-based sauce, all enriched with the fresh, herbaceous notes of dill. This is Greek Green Peas Stew, a humble yet soul-satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season. The aroma alone—garlic mingling with sautéed onions and simmered tomatoes—will have you drooling before the first bite.

Whether you’re looking for a light vegetarian dinner, a comforting lunch, or a vibrant side dish, this Greek classic delivers heartiness, flavor, and a little Mediterranean sunshine in every spoonful.

Recipe Origin

Greek Green Peas Stew, or Arakas Lahanikós, is a traditional home-cooked dish often served with feta cheese and crusty bread. It’s part of Greece’s rich culinary heritage, where fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs come together in simple, nourishing meals. The combination of tender vegetables, sweet green peas, and dill makes it a dish that feels both comforting and fresh—a true taste of Greek summer.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowl

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Why You’ll Love Greek Green Peas Stew

This stew isn’t just food—it’s a cozy experience in a bowl. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Flavorful & Fresh

Green peas, zucchini, and carrots combine with garlic, onions, and dill to create a vibrant, fragrant stew that’s bursting with flavor.

Healthy & Nourishing

Packed with vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this dish is nutrient-rich and naturally wholesome.

Simple & Approachable

With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests.

Vegetarian-Friendly

A hearty vegetarian meal that even meat lovers will enjoy. Pair it with feta for extra richness.

Budget-Friendly

Uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen—fresh or frozen vegetables, olive oil, and tomatoes—proving that simple ingredients can make an extraordinary dish.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use fresh peas when possible, but frozen peas work just as well.
• Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Simmer gently to let flavors meld without overcooking the vegetables.
• Add fresh dill at the end of cooking for maximum aroma and flavor.
• Serve with crumbled feta or crusty bread for the perfect finish.

Ingredients in Greek Green Peas Stew

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Main Ingredients

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Creates the aromatic base and adds richness.
Red Onion & Garlic: Sautéed to build a fragrant, flavorful foundation.
Green Peas: Sweet and tender, providing a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Potatoes: Hearty and soft, giving the stew body and substance.
Zucchini: Mild and tender, absorbing the stew’s flavors beautifully.
Carrots: Sweet and slightly firm, balancing the savory sauce.
Tomato Paste & Ripe Tomatoes: Adds richness, acidity, and depth to the sauce.
Fresh Dill: Bright, herbaceous flavor that makes this dish unmistakably Greek.
Sea Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
Hot Water or Vegetable Stock: Creates the perfect consistency for a tender, flavorful stew.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top for a creamy, salty contrast.

Instructions

Let’s bring this vibrant Greek stew to life:

Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat.

Sauté Aromatics: Add minced red onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and soft, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.

Add Vegetables: Stir in green peas, potatoes, zucchini, and carrots. Mix to coat the vegetables in the aromatic oil.

Incorporate Tomato Base: Add tomato paste and diced ripe tomatoes. Stir thoroughly to combine and develop a rich, cohesive flavor.

Add Liquid: Pour in hot water or vegetable stock. Stir, making sure all vegetables are partially submerged. Season with sea salt to taste.

Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat and simmer gently until potatoes and carrots are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 20–25 minutes.

Finish with Fresh Dill: Stir in chopped fresh dill at the end of cooking for a bright, fragrant touch.

Serve & Enjoy: Plate the stew and top with crumbled feta cheese. Serve warm, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread to mop up every delicious drop.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: Approx. 250–300
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes

How to Serve Greek Green Peas Stew

• With Feta: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty contrast.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A light Greek salad complements the richness of the stew.
• As a Main Dish or Side: Works beautifully as a main vegetarian meal or a side to grilled meat or fish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure ingredients beforehand for quick cooking.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove to maintain vegetable texture and freshness.

Variations to Try

• Add bell peppers or green beans for extra color and flavor.
• Substitute dill with fresh parsley or mint for a slightly different herbal note.
• Include a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
• For a creamier version, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving.

Additional Tips

• Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning at the end for optimal flavor balance.
• Fresh, ripe tomatoes make a noticeable difference in richness and flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen peas?
A1: Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and are convenient year-round.

Q2: Can I make this vegan?
A2: Absolutely! Simply omit feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Q3: Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?
A3: Yes, chicken stock adds extra depth of flavor.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Yes, cook the stew, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

Q5: How do I prevent the potatoes from overcooking?
A5: Cut potatoes into uniform pieces and simmer gently, checking for tenderness.

Q6: Can I add other herbs?
A6: Fresh parsley or mint can complement or replace dill for variation.

Q7: Can I freeze this stew?
A7: Yes, freeze without feta for up to 3 months. Add feta when serving.

Q8: Can I make it spicier?
A8: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add gentle heat.

Q9: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A9: Yes, Yukon gold or red potatoes work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Q10: How thick should the stew be?
A10: The sauce should be slightly thick but not dry. Adjust with extra stock or water if needed.

Conclusion

Greek Green Peas Stew is a celebration of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and comforting flavors. It’s simple, nourishing, and utterly delicious—a perfect example of Greek home cooking. Every bite brings a burst of sweetness from peas, heartiness from potatoes, and freshness from dill, finished with the creamy tang of feta.

Gather your ingredients, simmer this colorful stew, and enjoy a taste of Greece in your own kitchen. It’s comforting, healthy, and utterly satisfying—a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

See how to prepare Greek green peas stew: