This Easy Frozen Peas Recipe is a quick and easy side dish that's ready in just 10 minutes! It's one of those realistic, time-saving recipes that help you get dinner on the table with less fuss. And don't worry, there is no compromising texture here! The buttery, flavorful bite is proof that vegetables can be both delicious and fast!
There is nothing like cooking for a family of 7 to convince you that simple vegetable side dish recipes (especially from frozen) are total game changers! After years of trying different recipes, this has become our go-to.
When you are cooking for the family every single night (I've been at it for 2 decades!) nothing beats being able to make a side dish that you can pull together from basic and pantry staples. Five minutes of hands-on work, a quick toss in the skillet, and you are done!
This is one of our simple side dishes that was inspired by a couple others that we have used for years, pan roasted corn and quick green beans almondine. They give you a veggie-filled side dish with almost zero planning (and no last minute grocery runs!).
Skip to:
Why this recipe made the cut
- Extra convenient: A handful of ingredients, minimal chopping, and every thing is easy to have on hand.
- Super flavorful: A little butter, garlic, and onion bring such amazing flavor to green peas!
- Great texture: The cooking technique is the secret here, which is based off of our always popular skillet roasted corn, that keeps the peas firm and never mushy!
Ingredients for frozen peas recipe
This easy method only needs four staple ingredients! Exact amounts are in the recipe card below.
- Peas: Frozen baby sweet peas (also labeled as petite peas) come out the firmest, but regular frozen peas work equally as well.
- Butter: Salted butter is the go-to in our kitchen. It imparts amazing flavor. Feel free to substitute olive oil if desired.
- Onion: White, yellow, or sweet onions all work in this application. Red onions will turn a funny color but otherwise taste delicious.
- Garlic: We like pre-minced garlic for its convenience, but feel free to mince a large clove if desired.
Helpful kitchen tools
How to cook frozen peas
In a large skillet melt the butter over medium heat, and then add in the onion and saute until it starts to turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
Pour in the bag of frozen peas and a couple tablespoons of water. This is the hybrid method that steams the peas just a bit to soften them without so much water that they turn into mushy peas.
Cover the pan and cook for 2 minutes. Remove the lid and cook for 3 more minutes.
Remove the lid and stir. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Variations
The easiest way to make frozen peas more interesting is to add in a little flavor.
- Add in a couple tablespoons of heavy cream for creamy peas.
- Finish with a splash of lemon juice.
- Grate in some parmesan cheese.
- Freshly chopped mint is a classic combination.
How to store
Store any leftovers of this pea recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm gently before serving.
FAQs
No, for the best results, cook the peas straight from frozen. It's not only super convenient, but also the best way to keep them firm.
The best way, aka right way, to cook frozen peas is in a skillet. Boiling them is a common myth that usually only produces flavorless, overcooked peas.
Tips & tricks
- For the best texture be sure to dice the onion quite small.
- If you use unsalted butter, be sure to add a pinch salt.
- Be careful not to overcook the peas. This will lead to a super soft texture that isn't preferred.
More recipes
Looking for other simple but delicious recipes? Try these:
Recipe
Frozen Peas Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup onion finely minced
- 1.5 teaspoon garlic
- 1 lb green peas frozen
- 2 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted add in the onion and saute for 3 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the peas and water. Cover and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove the lid and stir. Leave the lid off and cook for 3 more minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- For the best texture be sure to dice the onion quite small.
- If you use unsalted butter, be sure to add a pinch salt.
- Be careful not to overcook the peas. This will lead to a super soft texture that isn't preferred.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
All nutrition information is provided by a third party and is an estimate only. Use your own nutritional calculator for more specific measurements.
Danielle says
This recipe is such a quick and easy side, and it doesn't sacrifice any flavor!