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Garlic Butter Peas

This dish transforms humble frozen peas into a rich, buttery side loaded with garlic. Sautéed in butter until tender and fragrant, the peas develop a bright, glossy appearance with a savory flavor and slight crunch, making for an irresistibly simple yet elegant accompaniment.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or salted butter, adjust salt accordingly
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh, crushed and minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas no need to thaw
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, microplaned
  • to taste salt adjust at the end
  • to taste freshly cracked black pepper
  • pinch red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Small skillet or pan
  • Knife
  • Microplane or grater (optional)
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Place a small skillet over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt gently until it starts to foam softly, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Crush and finely mince the garlic, then add it to the melting butter, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly translucent, but not browned.
  3. Add the frozen peas directly to the pan, stirring them into the garlic butter to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until peas are heated through and shiny.
  4. Sprinkle in the lemon zest if using, and stir to combine, allowing the zest to release its bright aroma for about 30 seconds.
  5. Season with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, tasting as you go for balance.
  6. Remove the pan from heat and let the peas rest for a minute, allowing flavors to meld and the butter to coat each pea beautifully.
  7. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the glossy, flavorful peas that balance sweetness with garlic and butter richness.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Fresh peas can be used with a quick blanch. Add herbs like parsley or dill at the end for extra freshness.