My quick spring twist on Bubble and Squeak with fresh peas

Every spring, I love refreshing my kitchen with new flavours, and this quick update on the classic Bubble and Squeak really hits the spot. Adding a handful of vibrant green peas gives it a lighter, fresher feel, just right for those longer, sunnier days.

Ingredients

⏱️

Prep20 min

🍳

Cook45 min

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⚡

Total65 min

🔥

Calories450 kcal

👥

Servings4 people

Ingredients

−4+

🥔

leftover mashed potatoes600 g

🥬

cooked cabbage, finely chopped400 g

🥬

fresh peas, shelled150 g

small onion, finely diced1

vegetable oil or butter2 tbsp

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

🥬

Fresh mint leaves, a small handful (optional)

🥬

English mustard (optional)1 tsp

Preparation

1. Begin by blanching the fresh peas in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain them and rinse under cold water to preserve their bright colour and crisp texture.
2. Warm the oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent.
3. Next, add the chopped cabbage and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so it wilts and blends nicely with the onions.
4. Fold in the mashed potatoes along with the drained peas. Mix everything carefully so some texture remains.
5. Season with salt and pepper. If you like, stir in a teaspoon of English mustard for a subtle tang.
6. Press the mixture down evenly in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 8, 10 minutes over medium heat until the bottom forms a golden crust.
7. Turn the Bubble and Squeak over in sections, or as a whole if you feel confident, and cook the other side for another 8 minutes until it’s crisp and warmed through.
8. Serve topped with fresh mint leaves; their bright, springtime flavour pairs beautifully with the peas.

My tips

Feel free to use any leftover cooked vegetables, but aim for a balance in texture, soft mashed potatoes combined with firmer greens work best. When flipping, a wide spatula and patience make all the difference to get that lovely golden crust. If you’re short on time, you can cook the peas right in the pan with the cabbage; just keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.

Variations

To make it heartier, stir in some cooked bacon or smoked sausage before frying. For a vegetarian twist, sprinkle grated cheddar or crumble feta on top just before serving. You can also swap peas for broad beans or tender asparagus tips when they’re in season, keeping the dish fresh and exciting.

Helen Ferrers

Helen is a dedicated sport enthusiast who lives for the thrill of every game and workout. Through her blog, she shares practical tips, inspiring stories, and fresh ideas to help you push your limits and enjoy an active lifestyle every day. Join her journey to make fitness fun, accessible, and rewarding.