Steamed Peas
A quick and classic side dish of tender, sweet green peas steamed to perfection and tossed with butter, salt, and pepper. The perfect simple vegetable for any weeknight dinner, ready in under 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Place the frozen peas and water in a medium saucepan or pot with a tight-fitting lid. There's no need to thaw the peas first.
- 2
Cover the saucepan and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat
- a.Once you hear it boiling and see steam, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle steam.
- 3
Let the peas steam for 3-5 minutes
- a.They are done when they are heated through, tender, and have a vibrant, bright green color. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat
- a.Drain off any small amount of excess water remaining in the pot.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Add the butter, salt, and freshly ground black pepper directly to the hot peas in the pot. Stir gently until the butter has completely melted and the peas are evenly coated. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality frozen peas, often labeled as 'sweet peas' or 'petite peas'.
- 2Do not overcook the peas. They should be tender-crisp and bright green. Mushy, olive-colored peas are a sign of overcooking.
- 3For a richer flavor, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for steaming.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herby Peas
Toss the finished peas with 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped mint, parsley, or dill for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Lemony PeasLemony Peas
Stir in 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice along with the butter for a bright, citrusy note.
Cheesy PeasCheesy Peas
After adding the butter, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese until melted and creamy.
Peas and OnionsPeas and Onions
Before adding the peas, sauté 1/4 cup of finely chopped shallots or sweet onion in the butter until soft and translucent.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Green peas are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins K, C, and A, as well as folate and manganese, which support bone health, immunity, and energy metabolism.
Excellent Source of Fiber
The high fiber content in peas promotes digestive health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria and ensuring regular bowel movements. It also helps you feel full and satisfied.
Good Source of Plant-Based Protein
For a vegetable, peas contain a surprisingly high amount of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and overall body function.
Supports Blood Sugar Control
With a relatively low glycemic index and high fiber and protein content, peas can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugars.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 140 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish.