Ah, sweet peas – the epitome of springtime freshness. These tender green pods are not only a delight to eat, but also incredibly versatile when it comes to cooking. From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, and from sweet treats to savory main courses, sweet peas can be used in a wide variety of recipes to add flavor, texture, and nutrition.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious sweet pea recipes that are perfect for every occasion – whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty and satisfying main course. From classic combinations like pasta and risotto, to innovative twists on old favorites, these recipes showcase the best of what sweet peas have to offer.
So without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 18 delicious sweet pea recipes!
Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas, cooling mint, and rich cream, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. With its vibrant green color and soothing aroma, this creamy soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sweet peas, broth, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of peas with the savory flavors of garlic and butter, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 2 cups frozen sweet peas
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook until thawed and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pea mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, sweet peas, and tender pasta shells. This recipe is a creative twist on traditional stuffed shells that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine sweet peas, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the sweet pea mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Sweet Pea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of sweet peas with the brightness of lemon and the subtle flavor of fresh herbs, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch for spring.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the cooked sweet peas to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and dill.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sweet Pea and Bacon Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, perfect for a springtime dinner or special occasion. With its rich and comforting texture, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or 1/2 cup frozen)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the sweet peas and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry
A creamy and aromatic curry that combines the sweetness of peas with the earthiness of potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can of coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add sweet peas, potatoes, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir well to coat the vegetables.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Crostini
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Crostini: A Simple yet Elegant Appetizer
Elevate your party with this effortless yet impressive canapé, combining the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, sauté the sweet peas with butter until tender.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top each crostini with a spoonful of sweet pea mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of peas with the earthiness of mushrooms, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the sweet peas and soy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are tender but still bright green.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a summer dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and sliced
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 sweet peas and goat cheese.
4. Place the pea and goat cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ham Hock Stew
This hearty stew combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the rich flavor of ham hocks, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham hock
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place the ham hock in a large Dutch oven or pot with a lid.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then pour in the chicken broth.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 1 hour, or until the ham is tender and falling apart.
6. Remove the pot from the oven and add the fresh sweet peas.
7. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
8. Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the stew.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast
Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast Recipe
This recipe combines the freshness of sweet peas with the creaminess of avocado, all on top of crispy toast for a delightful breakfast or snack. Perfect for springtime, this dish is sure to brighten up your morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen and thawed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat toaster or conventional oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toast bread slices until lightly browned.
3. Spread mashed avocado on each toast slice.
4. Top with sweet peas, gently pressing them into the avocado.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Feta Frittata
Sweet Pea and Feta Frittata Recipe
A twist on the classic quiche, this sweet pea and feta frittata is a delightful breakfast or brunch option that combines the freshness of peas with the tanginess of feta.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a 9-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the sweet peas and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the peas and stir gently to combine.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the feta is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Carbonara
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Carbonara: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the sweetness of fresh peas and the savory flavor of pancetta. The result is a unique and delicious twist on a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta, diced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 medium skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the sweet peas to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they’re tender but still bright green.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
5. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Add the pancetta and peas to the bowl and toss everything together until combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche
A refreshing twist on a classic quiche, this Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche is perfect for springtime brunches or light dinners. The sweetness of the peas pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add chopped sweet peas and spinach leaves to the egg mixture; stir well.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Pea and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the natural sweetness of corn, creating a delicious and comforting soup perfect for any time of year. With its velvety texture and subtle flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sweet peas and corn kernels; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Lemon Orzo Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing summer salad featuring sweet peas, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked orzo, sweet peas, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Basil Pesto Pasta
This recipe celebrates the sweetness of fresh sweet peas and the brightness of basil in a vibrant pesto sauce, paired with al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine sweet peas, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
Sweet Pea and Caramelized Onion Flatbread Recipe
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the depth of caramelized onions on a crispy flatbread, perfect for a quick and delicious snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
6. Spread caramelized onions on one half of the flatbread, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Top with chopped sweet peas and dot with butter.
8. Fold the other half of the flatbread over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
9. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until crust is golden brown and crispy.
10. Brush with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 delectable sweet pea recipes! From comforting soups and creamy pasta dishes, to savory salads and indulgent brunch options, there’s something for every occasion. Discover how sweet peas can be paired with everything from mint and lemon to bacon and goat cheese in recipes like Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup, Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta, and Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart.
