How to Cook Frozen Peas

An easy-peasy side dish full of plant protein and decadent flavor.

Table of Contents

While frozen peas are typically boiled or steamed in a pot until done, this recipe does things a little differently. To help them maintain their buoyant, tender texture, we’re using a simple skillet instead!

So, no more shriveled-up peas or accidental purée! And if you thought frozen peas had to be flavorless, think again, because these little green babies are decked out in a sweet butter shallot sauce and garnished with freshly grated Parmesan.

As a vegetarian, I often top my pasta bowls with peas for a boost of plant-based protein and fiber. They pair perfectly with anything from tofu to mushroom steaks, and they are so simple yet so versatile. You can also pair them with any meat like steak or chicken; they go with almost any main as a plump and slightly sweet complement.

The best part is: there’s no need to defrost them! Just cook the frozen peas directly in the butter shallot sauce, then enjoy.

Are Frozen Peas Healthy?

While there’s some debate as to whether or not frozen veggies are as nutritious as fresh (keep scrolling to read more about that), frozen peas are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

This recipe calls for a buttery shallot sauce, but to make it one hundred percent vegan, you can use coconut or avocado oil instead. On the same note, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and you’ve got a fully plant-based dish. Overall, these peas are gluten-free and sugar-free, and can easily be made low-sodium by skipping the salt.

Stellar Seasonings To Try

While this recipe is strong as it is, you can also play with the seasonings according to your preference. For example, I enjoy adding a half teaspoon each of paprika, cumin, and garlic powder to kick it up a notch.

Herbs are also fun to play with, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Add these at the tail-end of cooking for a little extra flavor boost.

INGREDIENTS

1/3 cup unsalted butter, divided
1 shallot, minced
1 pound frozen green peas
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan for garnish, optional

INSTRUCTIONS

Melt

Melt butter and cook shallots.

Cook

Add peas and heat through.

Season

Add salt and pepper.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

Before storing, make sure the peas cool to room temperature. Then you can place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. Keep in mind that the butter will solidify in the fridge and might turn a little yellow; this is totally normal. Simply reheat on the stove the same way you cooked it, and watch it melt back to a glossy sauce.

Are Frozen Peas Less Nutritious Than Fresh?

While many people think that frozen vegetables have less nutrients than fresh, it’s actually, more often than not, quite the opposite. Freezing vegetables can sometimes preserve more nutrients than other methods, because they are frozen closer to when they are their freshest. What matters is whether or not the veggies were pre-cooked or blanched. Sometimes this process can lower vitamin content, but for the most part, frozen peas are just as healthy as fresh (although personally I think fresh peas can be more flavorful).

Should Frozen Peas Be Thawed Before Cooking?

You can thaw the peas in the microwave before cooking, but it’s not really necessary, and doing so might make them mushy. Instead, simply cook the peas directly on a skillet as the recipe instructs, and they’ll be thoroughly cooked in less than 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pick your favorite protein and go for it! These peas go well with this Crispy and Healthy Baked Tofu, some Sous Vide Pork Chops, a bowl of Lamb Meatballs, or even these Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs.

You can also do what I do and pour them over a bowl of Cauliflower Pasta or Instant Pot Quinoa for a simple but delicious meal.