Mashed Peas Recipe
Meet your new go-to veggie side—Mashed Peas! This dish is seriously vibrant, bursting with sweet, fresh flavor, and comes together in just minutes. No bland greens here; think creamy bites laced with butter, olive oil, and a hint of mint (if you fancy). These mashed peas are as tasty on their own as they are alongside your favorite mains, making it the perfect dish for quick weeknights or dinner parties with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of mashed peas comes from their simple, staple ingredients. Each element not only adds something distinctive—be it creaminess, punch, or color—but also lets those beautiful peas shine.
- Frozen green peas: Sweet, tender, and delightfully green—these are the star, and frozen varieties keep things easy and fast.
- Unsalted butter: Adds an irresistibly creamy base that melds the flavors together gorgeously.
- Olive oil: Brings a fruity richness that lightens up the mash and complements the butter perfectly.
- Garlic (minced): Just a small clove gives a delicate aroma and gentle background heat.
- Fresh mint leaves (optional): If you like a fragrant, herbal twist, mint brings a lovely lift (highly recommended for a classic British touch).
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all those fresh flavors.
- Water or vegetable broth: Use a splash as needed to get just the right creamy texture without diluting the taste.
How to Make Mashed Peas
Step 1: Boil the Peas
Start by bringing a small pot of water to a lively boil. Add your frozen green peas and let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes—just until they’re tender but still bright green and full of flavor. Drain them well and set them aside for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté for Flavor
In a skillet or saucepan, melt the butter together with the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds; you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with that gorgeous garlicky aroma. Quickly add the drained peas, and stir to coat them gently in all that delicious buttery, garlicky goodness.
Step 3: Blend to Perfection
Take the pan off the heat and transfer the peas (along with all the buttery bits) to a food processor or grab your immersion blender. Drop in the mint leaves if you’re using them, and season with salt and black pepper. Pulse or blend, adding a tablespoon or two of water (or vegetable broth) as necessary, until your mashed peas are as smooth or chunky as you love. Pause for a taste and adjust the seasoning until it’s just right for you.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the mashed peas into a serving bowl while still warm. If you feel like going extra creamy, now’s your chance to stir in a little cream or a dusting of Parmesan cheese. This quick-mash becomes your canvas—ready to accompany everything from roast meats to crusty bread.
How to Serve Mashed Peas
Garnishes
Mashed Peas are wonderful on their own, but a little garnish elevates them to next-level status. A sprinkle of chopped fresh mint or parsley brings freshness, while a swirl of olive oil or a dusting of flaky sea salt adds eye-catching appeal and flavor. If you crave richness, a grating of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of crème fraîche is always welcome.
Side Dishes
These peas love company. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled lamb, or pan-seared fish for a pop of color and flavor. They also nestle happily next to grain dishes or can brighten a big tray of roasted vegetables. If you’re brunching, they make a killer bed for poached eggs.
Creative Ways to Present
Why stop at a simple bowl? Spread your mashed peas onto warm toast and finish with a squeeze of lemon. Spoon them atop baked potatoes or swirl them into risotto. They can even become a vibrant dip for pita chips or crudités—easy elegance for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mashed peas keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool completely before tucking them away, and they’ll be fresh and delicious when you’re ready for round two.
Freezing
If you want to whip up a batch ahead of time, mashed peas freeze beautifully! Pack them into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep their vibrant flavor and color for up to two months. For best results, freeze in smaller portions for easy, single-serving sides.
Reheating
To bring your mashed peas back to life, simply warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a spoonful of water or broth as needed to loosen them up. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for mashed peas?
Absolutely! If you have sweet, fresh peas, they’re fantastic. Just blanch them quickly in boiling water for one to two minutes, drain, and proceed with the recipe as written.
What can I use instead of mint?
If mint isn’t your thing, try fresh basil, chives, or parsley. Each herb brings its own twist and pairs beautifully with green peas for a unique flavor profile.
How chunky or smooth should mashed peas be?
That’s totally up to you! For a rustic feel, blend them briefly for a chunky texture. If you prefer silky smooth, blend longer and add a splash more liquid for a lush, creamy consistency.
Are mashed peas healthy?
Yes! Peas are full of fiber, protein, and vitamins, making mashed peas a nutritious side loaded with plant-powered goodness. They’re also naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
Can I make mashed peas vegan?
Absolutely. Just substitute a plant-based butter or use a little more olive oil instead of butter. The results are still creamy, flavorful, and entirely vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your table with something quick, delicious, and a bit unexpected, give these mashed peas a try. They’re endlessly versatile, impossibly easy, and always a hit—I’m sure they’ll become a staple in your kitchen just as quickly as they did in mine!
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Mashed Peas Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make recipe for Mashed Peas, a flavorful side dish or dip perfect for any meal. With the freshness of green peas and a hint of mint, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen green peas
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons water or vegetable broth (as needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Peas: Boil water and cook peas for 2–3 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Mash: In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Sauté garlic, add peas, and coat. Transfer to a processor, add mint, salt, and pepper. Blend, adding water as needed.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, consider adding cream or Parmesan cheese.
- Pair with roasted meats or fish, or serve as a dip or spread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
