Peas with Lemon

These peas with lemon are bright, buttery, and full of flavor. I love how quickly they come together, making them one of my favorite easy side dishes. The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with garlic, butter, and just a touch of lemon zest for freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a simple bag of frozen peas into something special. It only takes a few minutes, yet the flavors taste fresh and vibrant. The garlic and butter make it comforting, while the lemon zest lifts everything up. It’s a side dish I can serve with almost any meal.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

2 cups frozen peas (about 10 ounces)
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon salted butter*
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper
Zest of 1/2 lemon, optional

Directions

1. Mince the garlic finely.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the frozen peas, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
5. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and tender.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest, if using.
7. Serve warm as a quick and flavorful side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in just 10 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or basil for extra freshness. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese makes the peas richer, while a squeeze of lemon juice adds more brightness. If I want a little heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds. I avoid overcooking them so they stay tender and bright.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, I can use fresh peas, but I blanch them first for a few minutes until tender before sautéing.

Do I need to thaw the peas before cooking?

No, I add them straight to the skillet from frozen.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, I simply use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

How do I keep the peas from turning mushy?

I cook them just until heated through and avoid over-stirring.

Can I add lemon juice instead of zest?

Yes, a small squeeze of lemon juice works well, though zest gives a brighter flavor.

What main dishes pair well with this side?

I love serving these peas with roast chicken, grilled salmon, pasta, or steak.

Can I add onions or shallots?

Yes, I sauté diced onions or shallots along with the garlic for extra flavor.

Are frozen peas as healthy as fresh?

Yes, frozen peas are picked and frozen quickly, so they retain most of their nutrients.

Can I make these peas ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but I can cook them a few hours in advance and reheat before serving.

How do I make the peas taste creamier?

I stir in a splash of cream or sprinkle with Parmesan for a richer texture.

Conclusion

These peas with lemon are one of my favorite quick sides because they’re fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes. The garlic, butter, and lemon zest transform simple peas into a dish that feels special. I love serving them with weeknight dinners or alongside a big holiday meal.

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