Name: Garlic Buttered Peas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 50g / 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or other oil/fat); 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 500g / 1 lb frozen peas; ½ teaspoon cooking/kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon water

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Garlic Buttered Peas turn frozen peas into a vibrant, flavorful side dish. Cooked from frozen in garlic butter, they remain bright green, never mushy, and full of buttery, garlicky goodness—ready in just minutes and perfect alongside so many mains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

From its buttery garlic aroma to its perfect texture, this side dish elevates simple peas into something memorable. It’s one of those recipes you’ll turn to when you want something fast but not boring.

Garlic Buttered Peas

No boiling or draining—peas cook directly from frozen
Rich, buttery flavor with bright garlic notes
Firm, never soggy peas
Ready in mere minutes
Kid-approved and versatile with many mains

Ingredients

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

3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or other oil/fat)
2 garlic cloves, minced finely
500 g / 1 lb frozen peas
½ teaspoon salt (kosher/cooking)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon water

Directions

In a large saucepan, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté ~30 seconds until golden and fragrant.
Stir in the frozen peas along with salt, pepper, and the water.
Increase heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and the water evaporates—about 5 minutes.
Add the remaining butter, stir to coat, and transfer to a serving bowl. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Herb boost: Stir in chopped mint, parsley, dill, or basil at the end
Citrus brightness: Add lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
Spice it: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.

FAQs

Do I need to thaw the peas?

No. These peas cook straight from frozen, which helps preserve texture.

Can I use canned peas?

Canned peas are softer; use cautiously. Frozen gives the best result here.

Can I replace butter with oil?

Yes, use your desired oil or dairy-free butter for a variation.

Will garlic overpower the peas?

No—the garlic softens and becomes fragrant without taking over.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger pan and maintain the proportions.

Conclusion

Garlic Buttered Peas are the kind of side that quietly steals the show. With buttery richness, garlic flavor, and perfect texture, they turn frozen peas into a dish you’ll look forward to serving. Fast, simple, and delicious—just the way sides should be.