Creamed Peas

2 pounds fresh green peas, shelled
3 tablespoons salted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Bring 1 cup lightly salted water to a boil. Add peas and cook for 6 to 7 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook until smooth and lightly browned, about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and continue cooking on medium heat, stirring often. Add salt and pepper. Cook until mixture is smooth and thick, about 6 minutes. Stir in cooked peas. If not serving right away, keep warm.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

NOTE: May either serve as a vegetable side dish or as a sauce over salmon croquettes, baking chicken or ham.