Buttered Green Peas
A simple, classic side dish that comes together in minutes. Sweet green peas are gently cooked and tossed in rich, melted butter for a comforting and versatile accompaniment to any meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Steam the Peas
- b.Pour 1/4 cup of water into a medium saucepan and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- c.Carefully add the frozen green peas to the boiling water. Cover the saucepan with a lid.
- d.Reduce the heat to medium and let the peas steam for 5-7 minutes. They are done when they turn a vibrant green and are tender but still have a slight pop. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- e.Once cooked, drain any remaining water from the saucepan thoroughly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add Butter and Seasonings
- b.Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately after draining.
- c.Add the cubed unsalted butter to the hot peas. The residual heat will melt it quickly.
- d.Gently stir until the butter has completely melted and coated all the peas.
- e.Sprinkle in the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional sugar. Stir again to combine all the flavors.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve
- b.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- c.Transfer the buttered peas to a serving dish.
- d.Serve immediately while warm as a perfect side to chicken, fish, or steak.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, do not overcook the peas. They should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- 2If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before draining and tossing with butter.
- 3Ensure you drain the peas very well after cooking to prevent a watery final dish.
- 4A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the butter.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Herbs
Toss in 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh mint, parsley, or dill along with the butter for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Make it SavoryMake it Savory
Add 1/4 cup of crispy, crumbled bacon or pancetta for a salty, savory crunch.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Sauté some pearl onions or sliced mushrooms in the butter before adding the cooked peas.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper for a subtle kick of heat.
Vegan OptionVegan Option
Substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter or 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Green peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Good Source of Vitamins
This dish provides essential vitamins, including Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin C for immune support, and Vitamin A for vision and skin health.
Provides Plant-Based Protein
Peas are a surprising source of plant-based protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Supports Heart Health
The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in peas can contribute to heart health by helping to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Buttered Green Peas recipe contains approximately 165 calories. This can vary slightly based on the exact amount of butter used.