by Linda Watson of
Cook for Good from her upcoming book, Wildly Affordable Vegan.
Legend has it that eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day brings luck. Who couldn't use some luck year round? Some years, I make this dish for my birthday in March. It's quick to make but rich in flavor layers. A bay leaf enhances the earthiness of the black-eyed peas. Walnuts add creamy umami to the bright sauce. Serve Lucky Lemon Black-Eyed Peas over hot cooked quinoa, rice, or cornbread. For a fat-free version, skip the olive oil.
You'll have some extra sauce to serve over baked potatoes or roasted vegetables. Why? The blender or food processor needs enough material to get a grip. Also, a key Cook for Good tenet is to cook once and enjoy twice.