Let me tell you, making a mashed peas recipe is one of the easiest and most delightful things you can whip up in your kitchen! Seriously, it takes no time at all—just a quick boil and a little mash, and you’ve got a vibrant, green side dish that’s as tasty as it is nutritious. I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner; everyone was raving about how creamy and flavorful it was, and I couldn’t believe how simple it was to prepare! The fresh sweetness of the peas combined with a touch of butter creates a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this quick, delicious recipe to your regular rotation!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups frozen peas (you can also use fresh peas if they’re in season!)
2 tablespoons butter (feel free to use olive oil for a vegan option)
1/4 cup milk (more if you want a creamier texture)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
Pepper to taste (a little freshly cracked pepper adds a nice kick!)

How to Prepare Your Mashed Peas

First things first, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. You want it bubbling and ready to go!
Once the water is boiling, toss in your 2 cups of frozen peas. If you’re using fresh peas, they only need about 2-3 minutes, but frozen ones will take about 3-5 minutes until they’re tender.
When the peas are bright green and tender, drain them in a colander. Make sure to shake off any excess water so you don’t end up with a watery mash!
Now, return the drained peas back to the pot. Add in your 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/4 cup of milk. This is where the magic happens!
Grab a potato masher or fork and mash the peas until they reach your desired smoothness. I like mine with just a few little chunks for texture—totally up to you!
Finally, season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
Serve warm and enjoy the delightful, creamy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Peas Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can have this delightful dish ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Tasty and Creamy: The combination of butter and milk creates a rich, smooth texture that’s simply irresistible.
Nutrient-Packed: Peas are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and protein, making this a healthy choice for any meal.
Versatile Side Dish: These mashed peas pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to plant-based options.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor of peas is usually a hit with kids, making it a great way to sneak in those veggies!
Customizable: You can easily add herbs or spices to match your taste or dietary needs, making it your own.

Tips for Success with Your Mashed Peas Recipe

Alright, let’s make sure your mashed peas turn out absolutely fantastic! Here are my top tips for nailing this recipe every time:

Don’t Overcook the Peas: Keep an eye on the timer! Overcooked peas can turn mushy and lose that beautiful vibrant color. Aim for tender but still bright green!
Adjust the Creaminess: If you’re aiming for a super creamy texture, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk. Just add a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency!
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist. Herbs like mint or parsley can also elevate the flavor—just toss them in while mashing!
Texture Preference: If you like a bit of chunkiness in your mash, be careful not to over-mash. Just give it a few good smashes and leave some peas intact for that perfect bite!
Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Taste as you go. Sometimes, a little extra seasoning can make all the difference in bringing out the peas’ natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions: For a fun presentation, try serving your mashed peas in a small bowl topped with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It adds a lovely touch!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this mashed peas recipe shine, along with some easy substitutions you might consider!

Frozen Peas: I love using frozen peas because they’re convenient and still packed with flavor! However, if you have fresh peas on hand, feel free to use those instead. Just remember, fresh peas will cook a bit quicker—about 2-3 minutes in boiling water should do the trick!
Butter: Traditional butter adds a rich creaminess, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil works beautifully! It will give your mashed peas a lovely, light flavor.
Milk: I usually use whole milk for that creamy texture, but you can easily swap it out for almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk you like. Just keep in mind that different milks might change the flavor slightly, so choose one that complements your taste!
Salt and Pepper: These are essential for seasoning, but you can also experiment with other spices! A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even some smoked paprika can add a fun twist. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!

Making these adjustments not only caters to dietary needs but also makes the recipe uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting!

Variations on Your Mashed Peas Recipe

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, here are some delightful variations to elevate your mashed peas recipe. Trust me, these ideas will add a whole new layer of flavor!

Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or parsley can bring a vibrant freshness to your mashed peas. Just chop them finely and mix them in right before serving. Mint pairs especially well with peas!
Garlic Mashed Peas: For a savory twist, sauté a couple of cloves of minced garlic in the butter before adding it to the peas. This little addition will give your mash a wonderful depth of flavor.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture. This is perfect for those cheese lovers out there!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while mashing. It adds an exciting zing that complements the sweetness of the peas!
Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add in cooked carrots or mashed sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist. They blend beautifully with the peas and add a hint of sweetness!
Lemon Zest: A little zing of citrus can brighten up your mashed peas. Just grate some lemon zest into the mix, and you’ll be amazed at how it enhances the flavor!

These variations are not only fun but also a great way to customize your mashed peas to fit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite version!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional benefits of this delicious mashed peas recipe! Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional content per serving (approximately 1/2 cup):

Calories: 120
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 4g

These values are estimates, of course, and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, you can feel good about serving up this nutritious side dish that’s packed with fiber and protein! Peas are not just tasty; they’re also a fantastic way to add some green goodness to your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, so you’ve made your delicious mashed peas, and now you have some leftovers—great news! Here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay just as tasty as when you first made them.

First off, let your mashed peas cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make them watery. Once cooled, transfer your mashed peas to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to seal them tightly, so they don’t absorb any funky fridge odors!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply scoop out what you need and place it in a small saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or a little butter to help bring back that creamy texture as they warm up. Stir gently until heated through—this should only take a few minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry; just cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

And there you have it! Proper storage and reheating will ensure your mashed peas stay delicious, creamy, and ready to complement your next meal. Enjoy!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for this mashed peas recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh peas are delightful when in season. Just remember, they’ll cook quicker—around 2-3 minutes in boiling water—so keep an eye on them!

How can I make my mashed peas creamier?
If you’re aiming for that ultra-creamy texture, don’t be shy with the milk! Start with 1/4 cup, and feel free to add more until you reach your desired consistency. You can also incorporate a bit of cream cheese or sour cream for an extra luxurious touch!

Can I make this mashed peas recipe ahead of time?
You sure can! Just prepare them as usual, let them cool, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat with a bit of milk to restore that creamy goodness!

What can I serve with mashed peas?
These mashed peas are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty veggie burger. I love serving them alongside roasted meats or as a colorful addition to a plant-based meal.

Can I freeze mashed peas?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently!

Mashed Peas Recipe: 7 Secrets to Creamy Perfection

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious mashed peas recipe that is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups frozen peas
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Boil the peas in water for 3-5 minutes until tender.
Drain the peas and return them to the pot.
Add butter and milk to the peas.
Mash the peas until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm.

Notes

For a creamy texture, add more milk.
You can substitute butter with olive oil for a vegan option.
Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen if available.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: mashed peas recipe

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