Garlic Buttered Peas

Who knew frozen peas could be this good? This recipe turns a simple bag of peas into an incredible side dish. The secret is to skip the boiling water and cook them directly in a skillet with fragrant garlic butter. They come out bright green and perfectly tender, with a delicious savory coating—never mushy or watery. It’s a game-changer for a simple side that goes with just about anything.

Instructions

1. 1

   Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it turns a light golden color and smells amazing.

2. 2

   Add the frozen peas, salt, pepper, and water to the pan. Turn the heat up to medium-high and cook for 5 minutes, stirring every so often. The peas are done when the water has evaporated, they’re piping hot, and coated in that wonderful garlic butter.

3. 3

   Pour the peas into a serving bowl and serve immediately while they’re hot. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

• Peas – While petite peas (also called baby peas) are a bit sweeter and more tender, regular frozen peas work perfectly fine for this recipe.

• Dress up your peas – There are so many ways to make this dish your own! Try stirring in some finely chopped fresh mint at the end for a refreshing pop of flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a fantastic, savory addition. You could also add a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. For a warmer flavor, stir a pinch of cumin or coriander powder into the butter along with the garlic.

• Leftovers – If you happen to have any leftovers, they will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.