Savor the season with our easy, vibrant English Peas Recipe. Fresh, nutritious, and bursting with spring flavors you’ll adore!
How to Make Fresh English Spring Peas
What makes sweet peas so special? It’s not just the color, though their vibrant green is a true embodiment of spring. It’s the sweetness, the gentle crunch, and that soft, delicate taste that blooms in your mouth. Fresh English peas are quite the treat – a seasonal delicacy that brings a dose of nutrition and beautiful color to your plate. Plus, their versatility means they complement a wide array of dishes, making them a kitchen favorite.
Fresh spring English peas pair beautifully with a range of main dishes, bringing a touch of natural sweetness to balance more savory flavors. Think hearty roasted meats or grilled fish, or even a rustic, aromatic vegetable tart. Their delicate flavor also shines in lighter dishes like a spring risotto or a crisp, refreshing salad.
Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s all about simplicity and respect for the ingredients. We’re not masking the peas with heavy sauces or spices. Instead, we’re enhancing their natural flavor, letting the peas be the star of the show. The result is a dish that’s as healthful as it is delicious, a true homage to the spring season. Give this recipe a go, and you’ll understand why fresh English peas are a springtime treasure!
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Fresh Spring English Peas shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Peas (in the pod)
- Butter
- Salt & Pepper
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How to make English Peas
This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.
1
Boil
Put a pot of water on to boil.
2
Shell
Remove the peas from the shells and set aside.
3
Simmer
Add the peas to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low. They only need to cook for a couple minutes to make them tender.
4
Drain
Drain the water from the pot. Add butter. Stir gently until melted. Sprinkle with salt & pepper.
5
Enjoy
Start eating! These are best served immediately after cooking. Enjoy with a nice steak, grilled chicken breast, a pork tenderloin, Traeger Salmon, or whatever else you can dream up!
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Fresh Spring Pease FAQ
Do I have to shell the peas myself?
While we recommend using fresh shelled peas for the best taste and texture, you can absolutely use pre-shelled peas if you’re short on time. However, be mindful that the flavor might not be as vibrant as when you shell them yourself.
Do I have to shell the peas myself?
Sure! If fresh peas aren’t in season or readily available, frozen peas are a great alternative. They are usually picked and frozen at their peak freshness, so they retain a lot of their sweet flavor. They don’t really compare to fresh, however, so if you can find the fresh peas please grab them!
How long does it take to cook the peas?
English peas should be cooked just until they’re tender. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes when boiled. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re bright green and tender but still have a slight bite.
How can I store the leftover cooked peas?
Store any leftover cooked peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just spread the cooled peas out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They should be good for up to 6 months.
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More great spring recipes to love!
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- Fresh Grilled Salmon with lemon pepper
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Easy Fresh Peas
These delicious fresh English peas are simple to make and one of the best side dishes to make in the spring!
Ingredients
- 4 pounds fresh peas in the pod
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- salt & pepper
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to boil. You only need enough to just cover the peas.
- Shell the peas while you are waiting for the water to boil.
- Put the fresh peas into the water and turn the heat down to low. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender. Taste and check!
- Drain the peas and add some softened butter with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Notes
If you want to get really decadent, add a splash of heavy cream at the end with the butter.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 305Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 104mgCarbohydrates: 47gFiber: 17gSugar: 18gProtein: 16g
Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate.
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.