Name: Steamed Peas
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 4 min
Ingredients: 2 cups peas (fresh or frozen); 2 tbsp water; 2 tbsp butter; salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Growing up, my family and I had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table for our meals, and one of my favorite side dishes was always Steamed Peas. There’s something about the bright green color and the sweet, fresh taste that brings back fond memories of springtime dinners. I remember my mom would whip them up effortlessly in the microwave, creating a quick yet delightful complement to any main course. Whether it was grilled chicken or a simple pasta dish, Steamed Peas always shone through. Now, as an adult, I find myself doing the same for my family, sharing that love for this simple vegetable. It’s amazing how such a small ingredient can make a big impact on a meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
4 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon

The Magic of This Steamed Peas

Simple and Quick

One of the best aspects of Steamed Peas is how incredibly easy they are to prepare. You can have them ready in under ten minutes, making them a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Simply pop them in the microwave, and in just a few minutes, you have a fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.

Nutritious and Delicious

Another reason to love Steamed Peas is their nutritional value. They are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with a healthy dose of fiber and protein. They can add a nutritional punch to your meals without any fuss.

Versatile Pairing

Steamed Peas can effortlessly elevate any dish. They are the perfect side for everything from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes. Plus, they bring a lovely pop of color to your plate, making meals visually appealing.

Fresh or Frozen

Whether you choose fresh or frozen peas, both options are fantastic. Fresh peas have a delightful sweetness that can brighten any dish, while frozen peas are extremely convenient and retain their nutrients. This flexibility makes Steamed Peas a go-to choice year-round.

Child-Friendly

If you have picky eaters at home, Steamed Peas are often a hit. Their sweet flavor and tender texture are usually favored by children. Plus, they are easy to serve, making dinner time less stressful.

Customizable Seasoning

Finally, you can easily customize Steamed Peas to suit your taste. A sprinkle of salt, a pat of butter, or even some herbs can enhance their flavor and make them even more enjoyable. With just a few tweaks, you can create a dish that feels new every time.

Recipe Ingredients for Steamed Peas

When it comes to cooking, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For Steamed Peas, we rely on a few simple yet effective ingredients. The key players here are the peas, water, and butter, which work harmoniously to create a delightful side dish.

2 cups peas (fresh or frozen) – These are the stars of the dish, providing sweetness and vibrant color.
2 tbsp water – Essential for steaming the peas to perfection.
2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and a lovely flavor that complements the peas.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste – These seasonings enhance the natural sweetness of the peas.

Making This Steamed Peas

The beauty of making Steamed Peas lies in its simplicity. Just a few steps, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to serve. Let’s dive into the instructions.

Start by taking your fresh or frozen peas. If you’re using fresh peas, you will want to shell them first. Rinse them under cool water to clean them before cooking. This step is crucial for both fresh and frozen varieties to remove any dirt or ice crystals that may affect their flavor.
Next, grab a microwave-safe dish and place the peas inside. Pour in the water right on top. This moisture is what will help steam the peas to tender perfection.
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe plate. This is important as it traps the steam, allowing the peas to cook evenly. Make sure it’s a tight fit to prevent any steam from escaping.
If you’re using fresh peas, microwave them on high for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness by tasting one. They should be tender yet still have a slight bite to them. If they need more time, continue microwaving in 30-second increments.
For frozen peas, microwave them for 1 to 2 minutes, following the same procedure. Frozen peas tend to cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Once the peas are cooked, use oven mitts to carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Be cautious of the steam that will release when you lift the cover. It can be quite hot!
Drain any excess water if necessary, then stir in the butter while the peas are still hot. This will help it melt and coat the peas beautifully.
Finally, add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors together.
Your Steamed Peas are now ready to be served! They can be enjoyed hot as a side dish or even cooled for a refreshing salad. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing Peas: Fresh peas should be bright green and firm. If using frozen, look for ones without ice crystals, indicating they were stored properly.
Steam Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave. Always check for doneness, as overcooked peas can become mushy.
Butter Alternatives: For a healthier alternative, consider using olive oil or a plant-based spread to coat your peas.
Serving Temperature: Steamed Peas can be served warm or at room temperature. They can also be chilled for salads.

Substitutions and Tips

While Steamed Peas are delicious as is, there are a few tips and tricks that can enhance your experience. Here are some suggestions:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftover Steamed Peas. Just ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container and consume within two months for the best quality.
Pairing: Serve Steamed Peas alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or in a fresh salad for added color and nutrition.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding herbs like mint or parsley for a fresh twist. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer, you can also steam peas on the stovetop or in an air fryer for a different texture.

Serving Options for Steamed Peas

When it comes to serving Steamed Peas, the options are plentiful. Here are a few ideas on how to make the most of this dish:

As a Side Dish: Serve Steamed Peas alongside grilled fish or poultry for a balanced meal. Their sweetness complements savory flavors perfectly.
In Pasta Dishes: Add Steamed Peas to pasta meals, such as creamy sauces or cold pasta salads, to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
For Lunch: Incorporate them into wraps or grain bowls for a quick and healthy lunch option.
Seasonal Occasions: Steamed Peas are perfect for spring celebrations, making them an excellent choice for Easter brunch or summer barbecues.
Freezing for Later: If you find yourself with an abundance of peas, consider freezing them to enjoy in soups or stews later on.
Enhancing Salads: Toss Steamed Peas into salads for added texture and sweetness. They pair wonderfully with greens and citrus dressings.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using frozen peas is a great option for Steamed Peas. They are just as nutritious as fresh peas and can save you time. Simply microwave them for a shorter duration, usually 1 to 2 minutes, until they are heated through and tender. No need to thaw them beforehand. Just follow the same steps as you would for fresh peas, and you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time!

You can easily enhance the flavor of Steamed Peas with a variety of seasonings. Adding a pat of butter is a classic choice, as it adds richness. You can also experiment with herbs such as mint or parsley for a fresh twist. A sprinkle of lemon juice or zest just before serving can also provide a bright, zesty flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the peas.

Yes, Steamed Peas are incredibly healthy! They are low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and protein. Including peas in your meals can help promote digestive health and provide essential nutrients. They are also a great choice for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet without a lot of extra calories.

To store leftover Steamed Peas, allow them to cool down completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can typically last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just be sure not to overcook them during reheating to maintain their texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Steamed Peas are a wonderful addition to any meal, providing both flavor and nutrition. Their vibrant color and sweet taste can brighten up any plate. I encourage you to try making them tonight; they are quick, easy, and sure to impress. Whether as a side dish or added to a main course, Steamed Peas are a delightful choice that you won’t regret!

Steamed Peas

The ultimate comfort food, Steamed Peas are a simple yet delicious side dish that brings vibrant color and nutrition to your plate. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or festive occasions, these peas are a must-try!

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Cook Time 4

Total Time 4

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups peas fresh or frozen
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp butter
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

Wooden Spoon

Method

Start by taking your fresh or frozen peas. If you're using fresh peas, you will want to shell them first. Rinse them under cool water to clean them before cooking. This step is crucial for both fresh and frozen varieties to remove any dirt or ice crystals that may affect their flavor.
Next, grab a microwave-safe dish and place the peas inside. Pour in the water right on top. This moisture is what will help steam the peas to tender perfection.
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe plate. This is important as it traps the steam, allowing the peas to cook evenly. Make sure it's a tight fit to prevent any steam from escaping.
If you're using fresh peas, microwave them on high for 3 to 4 minutes. You'll want to check for doneness by tasting one. They should be tender yet still have a slight bite to them. If they need more time, continue microwaving in 30-second increments.
For frozen peas, microwave them for 1 to 2 minutes, following the same procedure. Frozen peas tend to cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Once the peas are cooked, use oven mitts to carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Be cautious of the steam that will release when you lift the cover. It can be quite hot!
Drain any excess water if necessary, then stir in the butter while the peas are still hot. This will help it melt and coat the peas beautifully.
Finally, add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors together.
Your Steamed Peas are now ready to be served! They can be enjoyed hot as a side dish or even cooled for a refreshing salad. Enjoy!

Notes

While Steamed Peas are delicious as is, there are a few tips and tricks that can enhance your experience. Here are some suggestions:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftover Steamed Peas. Just ensure they're in a freezer-safe container and consume within two months for the best quality.
Pairing: Serve Steamed Peas alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or in a fresh salad for added color and nutrition.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding herbs like mint or parsley for a fresh twist. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer, you can also steam peas on the stovetop or in an air fryer for a different texture.