Spring is here, and with it comes a bounty of fresh peas! There’s nothing quite like biting into a sweet, tender pea pod straight from the garden or farmers’ market. But what to do with them all? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious recipes that showcase the best of spring’s freshest peas.
From creamy soups and sautés to salads, pasta dishes, and more, we’ve gathered a collection of mouthwatering ideas to help you make the most of this season’s pea harvest. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, get cracking on those peas, and let the sweet taste of spring be yours!
Creamy Fresh Pea Soup with Mint
This creamy soup celebrates the sweet flavor of fresh peas and the bright, herbaceous taste of mint, perfect for a light and revitalizing springtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the peas, broth, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it heat through for about 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Fresh Peas
This recipe elevates fresh peas to a new level of flavor by combining them with rich garlic butter and a hint of lemon. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the peas to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the peas and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fresh Pea and Ricotta Crostini
Elevate your gathering with this delightful combination of sweet peas, creamy ricotta, and crunchy crostini. Perfect for springtime entertaining or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 baguette slices (crostini)
– Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine peas, ricotta cheese, mint leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Brush crostini slices with olive oil and toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pea-ricotta mixture onto each toasted crostini slice.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spring Pea and Asparagus Risotto
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this creamy risotto recipe featuring tender asparagus and sweet spring peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup fresh spring peas (or 1/2 cup frozen)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion; cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup broth; stir until absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, adding in increments and stirring until each portion is absorbed before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in asparagus and peas. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Pea and Pancetta Pasta
This springtime pasta dish showcases the sweetness of fresh peas and the savory flavor of pancetta. A perfect combination for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh peas (shelled)
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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 garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fresh peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, pancetta, pea mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Fresh Pea Salad
A refreshing and light springtime salad that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (shelled)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and chives.
2. Toss gently to coat the peas evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Fresh Pea and Potato Mash
This vibrant mash combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the earthiness of potatoes, perfect as a side dish or a base for other recipes. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned may be substituted)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the fresh peas (or their substitute) until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. If using cheese, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pea and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Cups
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of fresh peas with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in crispy phyllo cups. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup of fresh peas
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together peas, feta cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Cut the phyllo dough into small squares and brush with melted butter or cooking spray.
5. Place a spoonful of the pea-feta mixture onto the center of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the phyllo square into a triangle, pressing gently to seal the filling inside.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Pea Hummus with Pita Chips
This vibrant and refreshing hummus recipe celebrates the sweetness of fresh peas, perfect as a healthy snack or appetizer for your next gathering. With the crunch of pita chips, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked fresh peas
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita chips, for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the cooked peas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peas, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Continue blending until creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with pita chips for a delightful snack.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Fresh Pea Hummus with Pita Chips!
Pea and Mint Pesto Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of peas with the cooling freshness of mint, all wrapped up in a creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peas, mint, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the pesto sauce to cooked spaghetti and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Pea and Bacon Quiche
This quiche is a delicious and savory way to enjoy the flavors of spring, with fresh peas and crispy bacon adding a delightful twist to the classic French dish. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 6 eggs
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add fresh peas, diced bacon, and grated cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines fresh peas with creamy goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a springtime dinner party or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh peas (or 1/2 cup frozen)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together peas and goat cheese.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with olive oil.
5. Spoon the pea-goat cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Press edges together to seal, and cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Pea and Corn Fritters
A sweet and savory summer treat that combines the freshness of peas and corn with a crispy fritter exterior. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine peas, corn, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the pea mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Flatten each fritter slightly with a spatula and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Pea and Avocado Toast
A simple yet flavorful breakfast or snack option that combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (e.g. sourdough or baguette)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned also work)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the peas and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the pea mixture over the avocado toast.
5. Add red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on toasting time)
Fresh Pea and Spinach Curry
This vibrant green curry is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, packed with nutritious fresh peas and spinach. It’s an easy and healthy meal option for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add peas, spinach, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pea and Parmesan Arancini
These crispy fried risotto balls are filled with a creamy pea and Parmesan mixture, making them the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked risotto
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cooked risotto, peas, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add the beaten egg and stir until combined.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, shape the risotto mixture into small balls (about 1 inch).
5. Fry the arancini for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fresh Pea and Lemon Orzo Salad
This vibrant salad celebrates the sweetness of spring with fresh peas, lemony zest, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned can be used as substitute)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fresh peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked orzo with the pea mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pea and Prosciutto Flatbread
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the salty goodness of prosciutto on a crispy flatbread, perfect for a light and refreshing snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh peas
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then let rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Top with peas, prosciutto, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Pea and Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful bruschetta, featuring sweet fresh peas and fragrant basil atop toasted bread. Perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup fresh peas (shelled and chopped)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss bread slices with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. In a bowl, mix together fresh peas, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar (if using).
5. Top each toasted bread slice with pea-basil mixture.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry
Quickly stir-frying fresh peas and mushrooms with garlic and ginger creates a flavorful and nutritious dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms; cook for 2-3 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add peas; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate spring with these 20 delicious fresh pea recipes! From creamy soups to flavorful salads, savory pasta dishes, and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to use fresh peas in creative ways, such as adding them to risottos, crostini, and quiches. Or try making fresh pea hummus with pita chips or pea and mint pesto pasta for a refreshing twist. With these recipes, you’ll be enjoying the sweet taste of spring all season long!
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