Learn how to make tender, flavorful peas in just minutes with this simple minted peas recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals, these peas are quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavor.
When you need a quick and delicious vegetable side that works just as well for a weeknight dinner as it does for a special occasion, these minted peas are the answer.
This easy recipe is elegant enough for holiday meals, yet simple enough for a busy evening. It transforms frozen peas into something extra special with just a few ingredients.
How to Cook Frozen Peas:
Ever find yourself staring at a bag of frozen peas in your freezer and wondering, “What’s the best way to cook these?” If your go-to method is to boil them, you may be surprised to hear that sautéing is actually the better option for cooking frozen peas. While boiling can make peas mushy and bland, sautéing them yields tender, flavorful peas every time.
By cooking frozen peas in a bit of melted butter with just a touch of water, you create steam that warms them through without overcooking. This method only takes a few minutes and a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for a fast and tasty side. Finished with a sprinkle of finely chopped mint and a bit of lemon zest, this dish brings a bright and fresh burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredient Notes:
(Here are a few notes about the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. As always find the full list of ingredients and directions in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.)
- Frozen Peas – You can use either petite or regular frozen peas. Petite peas are smaller and more tender but both will work here.
- Sugar Snap Peas – I like to add some sugar snap peas for crunch and contrast, you could also use snow peas.
- Butter – You can use either regular or dairy-free vegan butter. Olive oil works as well but you’ll get the best results using butter.
- Scallions – Finely chopped scallions are added to the butter to flavor it before adding the peas.
- Mint – You’ll need some finely chopped mint to sprinkle over the peas when done.
- Lemon – You’ll need fresh lemon zest to finish the peas. You can also serve the peas with a few lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over.
How to Make Minted Peas:
(Here are the basic steps and some helpful tips. For the full directions, see the recipe card at the bottom.)
- Start by melting the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions and cook for a minute or two to flavor the butter.
- Add the frozen peas (no need to thaw), sugar snap peas, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas are warmed through and the water has been absorbed.
- Remove the pan from the heat, then season the peas to taste. Sprinkle with the chopped mint and lemon zest, then serve warm. That’s it—simple and delicious!
Variations:
- Swap the scallions, mint, and lemon zest for garlic, parsley, and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Stick to all frozen peas or use a combination of peas, snap peas, and snow peas for more texture and flavor.
These minted peas are a quick, flavorful side that can elevate any meal, making them a must-have recipe for both everyday dinners and special occasions!
More Pea Recipes:
Minted Peas
Learn the best way to cook frozen peas with this easy minted peas recipe. Get tender and delicious peas in just minutes! Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ Tablespoons/22g butter (dairy-free for vegan)
- 2 scallions, white and green parts thinly sliced
- 10 ounces/283g frozen peas
- 5 ounces/142g sugar snap peas, string removed and sliced in half
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- In a large skillet melt butter over low heat. Add sliced scallions and cook for 1 minute or until softened.
- Add frozen peas, sugar snap peas, salt and 2 Tablespoons of water.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until peas are tender and heated through (about 5 minutes).
- Remove pan from heat, stir in chopped fresh mint and lemon zest.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Variations:
- Use garlic, parsley and Parmesan instead of the scallions, mint and lemon zest.
- Use parsley and chives instead of mint.
- Use all frozen peas, or a mixture of peas, snap peas and snow peas.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and re-heat in pan with a splash of water before serving.
Dietary Info:
Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan (use dairy-free butter), Dairy-Free (if using dairy-free butter), Egg-Free, Nut-Free, Paleo
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 133Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 371mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 5gSugar: 5gProtein: 5g
Nutritional information for recipes contained on this website, such as calories, fat, carbs, etc. are only estimates and are not guaranteed to be accurate.
Sylvie Shirazi is the recipe developer and food photographer behind Gourmande in the Kitchen. For the last 10 years she's been making eating more healthfully easy and accessible with gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and vegan recipes that are free from processed ingredients.
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