Steamed Peas
Bright, tender green peas steamed just until sweet and pop-in-your-mouth. A quick, no-fuss side dish finished with a pat of butter and a tiny pinch of salt, ready in under 10 minutes. The kind of simple vegetable preparation that belongs alongside a Sunday roast or a weeknight grilled chicken.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Set up the steamer.
Fill a pot with about 2 cups of water, making sure the water sits just below where the steamer basket will rest. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- steam · ~4 min
Steam the peas until bright and tender.
1.Place the peas into the steamer basket in an even layer.2.Set the basket over the boiling water and cover tightly with a lid.3.Steam for 3 to 4 minutes until the peas turn bright green and are just tender to the bite.TIPDon't overcook. Peas should still have a slight pop — the color fades to olive green when they go too long. - mix · ~1 min
Drain, butter, and season.
Remove the steamer basket from the pot. Transfer the hot peas to a serving bowl, add the butter, and toss gently until the butter melts and coats every pea. Season with the pinch of salt and black pepper, then toss once more.
- serve
Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For fresh peas, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds before steaming to preserve color.
- 2Make sure the water level is below the steamer basket so peas steam, not boil.
- 3Test doneness by tasting: the pea should be tender with a slight pop, not mushy.
- 4If using frozen peas, do not thaw first; add them directly to the steamer basket.
- 5Add the butter while peas are still hot so it melts evenly and coats each pea.
- 6For a make-ahead, steam the peas, plunge into ice water, drain, and reheat quickly in a pan with butter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herby mint
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the butter for a classic sweet-and-savory pairing that elevates the peas.
garlic butterGarlic butter
Melt the butter with a minced garlic clove before tossing with the peas, adding a warm aromatic depth.
smoky baconSmoky bacon
Crumble 2 slices of cooked crispy bacon over the finished peas for a smoky, salty crunch.
veganVegan
Substitute the butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegan butter, and season with a pinch of smoked paprika for richness without dairy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant Protein
Green peas are a good source of plant-based protein, making this side dish more filling than many other vegetables.
High in Dietary Fiber
Each serving provides fiber that supports healthy digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Packed with Vitamin C
Peas contain vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps the body absorb iron from other foods.
Low in Calories
This buttered pea dish is a light, low-calorie side that adds volume and nutrients to meals without excess energy.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, place the peas in a heat-safe colander or metal sieve suspended over a pot of boiling water, then cover with a lid or foil.
