When it comes to springtime cooking, few ingredients evoke as much joy and nostalgia as sweet peas. Their delicate flavor and tender texture make them a perfect addition to a wide variety of dishes, from comforting soups to elegant pasta dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 19 delicious sweet pea recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic comfort foods like creamy sweet pea and mint soup to more adventurous options like sweet pea and goat cheese tart, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty main course, these recipes showcase the versatility of sweet peas in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into our collection of 19 delicious sweet pea recipes below, and get cooking with the flavors of spring!
Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, combining the sweetness of peas with the cooling flavor of mint. A light and creamy texture makes it a delightful side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the butter until melted over medium heat.
2. Add the peas, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped mint leaves.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the simplicity of stuffed shells with the sweetness of fresh peas and the creaminess of ricotta cheese, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the sweet peas to the ricotta mixture and stir until combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the pea-ricotta mixture.
6. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta recipe. A perfect blend of sweet peas, garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sweet peas to the saucepan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Bacon Risotto
This creamy risotto celebrates the sweetness of fresh sweet peas paired with the smoky richness of crispy bacon. A perfect springtime dish that’s sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process with the remaining broth, adding it in 1/2-cup increments.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add the sweet peas and cook until they’re tender but still bright green.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Potato Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the creaminess of Yukon gold potatoes, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, sweet peas, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including potato boiling time)
Sweet Pea Hummus with Pita Chips
Sweet Pea Hummus with Pita Chips Recipe
Sweeten up your snack time with this refreshing twist on traditional hummus! This creamy dip is infused with the natural sweetness of sweet peas and pairs perfectly with crunchy pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sweet peas, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Serve with pita chips for a delicious and healthy snack.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry Recipe
This sweet pea and mushroom stir-fry recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh peas with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms, making for a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the sweet peas and stir-fry until they are tender but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Frittata
Start your day with a flavorful and refreshing breakfast or brunch dish that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the savory taste of Parmesan cheese. This Sweet Pea and Parmesan Frittata is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas, thawed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sweet peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour egg mixture over the sweet peas in the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to set.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the eggs.
6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Lemon Orzo
This light and airy pasta dish combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a fluffy orzo package. Perfect for a springtime dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fresh sweet peas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and pea mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Chicken Curry
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sweet peas with the richness of chicken curry, making it a perfect dish for a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this curry is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add sweet peas, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the freshness of sweet peas with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sweet peas, crumbled goat cheese, honey, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pea-goat cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush the top with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Carbonara
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Carbonara: A Creative Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This innovative take on carbonara combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the savory goodness of pancetta, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz pancetta, diced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sweet peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add reserved pasta water and pancetta-sweet pea mixture to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche
Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Recipe!
This quiche is perfect for springtime gatherings or brunches, featuring sweet peas and spinach in a creamy egg filling. With its flaky crust and vibrant green filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas, sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the sweet peas and spinach with a pinch of salt until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese.
5. Add cooked sweet pea and spinach mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
6. Pour filling into pie crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Pea and Carrot Puree
Sweet Pea and Carrot Puree: A Delicious and Healthy Baby Food Recipe
This sweet and nutritious puree is perfect for introducing your little one to the world of flavors. Made with fresh sweet peas, carrots, and a hint of garlic, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked sweet peas
- 1/2 cup cooked carrots
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine sweet peas, carrots, and garlic.
- Pulse until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender.
- If desired, add breast milk or formula to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Sweet Pea and Shrimp Scampi
Sweet Pea and Shrimp Scampi: A flavorful and light seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with sweet peas and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the sweet peas according to package instructions or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and lemon juice, add them to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Serve the shrimp over the cooked sweet peas. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Basil Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the brightness of fresh basil. This dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side to accompany your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 cup frozen sweet peas, thawed
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet peas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
3. Stir in the chopped basil and pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and pea-basil mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ham Hock Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas and savory ham hocks, sure to warm your heart and soul on a chilly day. With the simplicity of this recipe, you can enjoy a comforting bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh or frozen sweet peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sweet peas, chicken broth, and ham hocks to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until peas are tender.
3. Remove ham hocks from pot; let cool slightly. Shred meat from bones and return it to the pot.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sweet peas, avocado, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Pea and Corn Chowder
A warm and comforting summer soup that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the creaminess of corn, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas (or frozen)
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sweet peas, corn, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetness of sweet peas! This collection of 19 delicious recipes showcases the versatility and flavor of this popular ingredient. From creamy soups to savory pastas, decadent risottos to refreshing salads, there’s something for every occasion. Try making a Sweet Pea and Mint Soup for a light lunch, or go bold with a Sweet Pea and Bacon Risotto for a satisfying dinner. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to delight.
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