As the weather warms up and spring arrives, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant color and sweet flavor of fresh sweet peas to brighten up your meals. In this article, we’ll be sharing 19 delicious sweet pea recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and add a pop of color to your plate.
From creamy soups and pasta dishes to savory stir-fries and decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone in our collection of sweet pea recipes. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty main course, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of the most creative and delicious ways to use up those sweet peas, from classic comfort foods to innovative twists on old favorites. So grab a pen and paper (or open up your favorite recipe app) and get ready to cook up some sweet pea magic!
Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
A refreshing twist on traditional pea soup, this creamy delight combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the coolness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the butter until melted.
2. Add the peas, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and mint leaves. Heat until warmed through, but do not boil.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta
A simple yet satisfying pasta dish that combines the natural sweetness of peas with the savory flavors of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the sweet peas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they’re tender but still bright green.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the pea mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss until melted and combined with the pasta.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of peas with the richness of ricotta, wrapped in tender shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sweet peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked peas, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Stuff each shell with the pea-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and shells are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Risotto with Sweet Peas and Lemon
This Spring Risotto with Sweet Peas and Lemon is a light and refreshing twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for the warmer months. The creamy risotto is infused with the sweetness of fresh peas and the brightness of lemon, making it a delightful side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. When the rice is cooked, stir in the sweet peas, garlic, white wine (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Bacon Carbonara
In this creative twist on the classic Italian dish, sweet peas add a pop of color and freshness to balance out the smokiness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add butter to the same skillet and let melt. Add sweet peas and cook for 1-2 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to combine with egg mixture.
6. Add reserved pasta water in small increments to achieve desired creaminess.
7. Stir in cooked bacon and sweet peas. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Sweet Pea and Radish Salad
Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this refreshing salad that pairs the tender crunch of fresh peas with the spicy zest of radishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 4-6 radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced peas.
2. Arrange the radish slices on top of the pea mixture.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese over the salad, if using.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Mashed Sweet Peas with Herbed Butter
Transform fresh sweet peas into a creamy, herby delight with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh sweet peas (such as sugar snap or garden peas)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the sweet peas for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn bright green.
2. Drain the peas and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cooled, drain again and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped chives until well combined.
4. Add the cooled sweet peas to the butter mixture and mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry Recipe
This vibrant curry combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the earthiness of potatoes, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, peas, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and water. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
This refreshing tart combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together sweet peas, goat cheese, honey, and lemon zest.
4. Place the pea mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Sweet Pea and Corn Fritters
Start your day with a delightful breakfast or brunch by trying these crispy, sweet, and savory fritters packed with the flavors of golden peas and corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup frozen golden sweet peas, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, peas, and corn until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
7. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar (if desired).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea Hummus with Pita Crisps
Sweet Pea Hummus with Pita Crisps Recipe
Enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional hummus with the sweetness of fresh peas and crispy pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drain and rinse the peas, then transfer them to a blender or food processor.
3. Add garlic, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the blender.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika (optional).
6. Bake pita chips in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, then serve with the sweet pea hummus.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Sweet Pea and Carrot Medley
A sweet and savory medley of roasted sweet peas and carrots, perfect as a side dish or added to salads, wraps, and bowls.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
• 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet peas and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. If desired, add garlic powder and mix well.
4. Spread the medley in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Quiche
This sweet pea and mushroom quiche is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, with the added sweetness of fresh peas and the earthy flavor of mushrooms. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this recipe serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
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 skillet, sauté the mushrooms with a pinch of salt until tender. Add fresh peas and cook until they’re bright green and tender.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, and cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the mushroom and pea mixture in the pie crust. Pour in the egg mixture and smooth out.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Pea Pesto Crostini
Elevate your apéritif game with this unique and delicious sweet pea pesto crostini. The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the cheese and bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine sweet peas, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Spread a small amount of sweet pea pesto on each toasted crostini.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A delightful combination of succulent shrimp and tender sweet peas, this stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious option for a quick dinner. With the perfect balance of savory and sweet, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the sweet peas, soy sauce, and honey. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the peas are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Sweet Pea Arancini
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of peas with the crispy, cheesy goodness of arancini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sweet peas, Arborio rice, warmed broth, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 arancini.
4. Place the arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 20-25 arancini
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the savory flavor of pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas (or frozen)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove pancetta from the skillet with a slotted spoon. Leave the drippings.
3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the skillet with rice. Stir until absorbed, then repeat process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in butter and sweet peas. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and crispy pancetta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Dill Spread
Sweet Pea and Dill Spread Recipe
This sweet and savory spread is perfect for topping crackers or bread, using as a dip for vegetables, or spreading on sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen can be used too)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peas, butter, garlic, and dill. Process until smooth.
2. Add salt and pepper; blend until combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
None! This spread is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Sweet Pea and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This sweet pea and asparagus stir-fry is a delightful and healthy vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the peas pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the asparagus, making this a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the frozen peas and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until the peas are thawed and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetness of spring with these 19 delicious sweet pea recipes! From creamy soups and pasta dishes, to risottos, salads, and more, there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at making Sweet Pea and Mint Soup, Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta, or Spring Risotto with Sweet Peas and Lemon. Or, go savory with options like Sweet Pea and Bacon Carbonara or Roasted Sweet Pea and Carrot Medley. Whatever your craving, these vibrant recipes are sure to delight.
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