When it comes to healthy eating, few ingredients are as nutritious and versatile as peas. These little green gems are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support everything from heart health to digestive well-being. And yet, despite their many benefits, peas often get relegated to the side dish or salad stage. But today, we’re shaking things up by highlighting 20 delicious pea recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride! From creamy soups to savory risottos and even sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with a rainbow of pea-based dishes that are sure to become new favorites.
Creamy Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day. The combination of sweet peas, fresh mint, and creamy coconut milk creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the split peas, vegetable broth, and chopped mint leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Peas
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of peas with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas under cold water if using frozen.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes.
Pea and Bacon Risotto
This creamy risotto combines sweet peas with smoky bacon, perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion. With its rich flavor and tender texture, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring until each portion is fully absorbed before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
7. Remove from heat; stir in diced bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Pea and Coconut Curry
This vibrant and aromatic curry is a perfect blend of Indian flavors, with the creamy richness of coconut and the spicy kick from green chilies. Serve it over fluffy rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split peas (such as yellow or green)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1-2 green chilies, sliced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the peas according to package instructions until tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked peas, green chilies, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pea and Feta Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the tanginess of crumbly feta cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh garden peas
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the peas, feta cheese, and mint leaves.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pea and Ham Hock Stew
This classic British recipe combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the rich, savory flavor of ham hocks. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this stew is easy to make and sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham hock
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add ham hock and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Add peas, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer stew for 2-3 hours, or until peas are tender and ham is falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pea and Potato Mash
This comforting side dish combines tender peas and potatoes with a hint of garlic and cream, making it the perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the peas, garlic, butter, and salt. Mash until smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half until combined.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creamy and delicious twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, this dish combines sweet peas with tangy ricotta cheese for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine peas, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the pea-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pea and Lemon Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines fresh peas with zesty lemon flavors, creating a light and refreshing springtime meal. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add peas, lemon juice, and reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until peas are tender.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pea mixture, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and nutritious toast recipe. Fresh peas add a burst of sweetness, while avocado provides healthy fats for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Add the fresh peas over the avocado, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Squeeze a sliver of lemon juice (if using) for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pea and Pancetta Carbonara
Pea and Pancetta Carbonara: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the smokiness of pancetta, creating a delightful twist on the traditional carbonara.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the fresh peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and pea mixture in a large serving bowl. Pour the egg mixture over the top and toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are set to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the sweetness of peas with the earthy flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add the peas and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pea and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a perfect representation of the season’s freshness, with sweet peas and wilted spinach perfectly balanced in a flaky crust. Serve warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a crisp green salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh peas
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add peas and spinach; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and cheese. Pour over the cooked pea mixture.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover the quiche. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Pea and Parmesan Arancini
These crispy, cheesy arancini are filled with a vibrant pea and Parmesan mixture, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt to taste.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small cylinders (about 1 inch long).
4. Dip each arancino into the beaten egg and then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
5. Fry the arancini in batches until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Pea and Chorizo Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this Spanish-inspired dish combines sweet peas with spicy chorizo for a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed peas
– 4 oz chorizo, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten; 1 green chili, sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked peas, chorizo, and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. If desired, push the rice mixture to one side of the pan, crack in the beaten egg, and scramble until cooked through. Mix egg into the rice.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green chili if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea and Carrot Fritters
These fritters are a tasty and nutritious snack that combines the sweetness of peas and carrots with the crunch of a crispy exterior. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a healthy after-school treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine peas, carrot, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pea and Basil Pesto
This recipe combines the sweetness of peas with the brightness of basil to create a delicious and healthy pesto perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine peas, basil, and garlic. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. Add pine nuts and process until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, just blend!
Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the freshness of peas with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together peas and honey until well combined.
4. Arrange the pea mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese, spreading it evenly over the peas.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Crimp the edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pea and Sweet Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh peas, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1 cup fresh or canned sweet corn kernels
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add frozen peas, sweet corn kernels, and diced potatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pea and Mint Hummus
This refreshing twist on traditional hummus combines the sweetness of peas with the cooling flavor of mint, perfect for a light and delicious snack or appetizer. This recipe is quick to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked split peas (such as green or yellow)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for thinning (optional)
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the peas, mint leaves, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of peas with these 20 delicious recipes that showcase their flavor and nutritional value. From creamy soups to savory stir-fries, and from sweet pastas to tangy salads, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with pea and mint soup, garlic butter sautéed peas, or spicy pea and coconut curry. Or try your hand at risottos, stews, mashes, and more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to delight.
