Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and tender taste of sweet peas! These versatile legumes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – they’re packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Whether you’re looking for a comforting soup to warm up on a chilly evening or a fresh salad to brighten up your lunch break, sweet peas have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delightful sweet pea recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, and from decadent desserts to healthy breakfast options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of sweet pea recipes. So why not start your culinary journey with us and discover the many ways you can enjoy these delicious legumes? In the next section, we’ll dive into our first recipe: Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup – a refreshing and comforting treat that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, combining the sweetness of sweet peas with the cooling flavor of mint. It’s a light and creamy treat that’s sure to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mint and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the sweet peas, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the savory flavor of garlic butter, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sweet peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tbsp. butter until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sweet pea mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells. Sweet peas add a pop of color and delicate flavor to the creamy ricotta filling.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sweet peas, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the pea-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Sweet Pea Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch. The combination of sweet peas, tangy lemon, and fragrant herbs creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sweet peas, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and dill. Toss gently to combine.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Sweet Pea and Bacon Carbonara
Sweet Pea and Bacon Carbonara: A creamy, savory twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring sweet peas and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweet peas, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan and toss with the pea-egg mixture until well coated.
5. Stir in the crispy pancetta or bacon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Sweet Pea Hummus
This sweet pea hummus takes the traditional recipe to new heights by incorporating roasted sweet peas, adding natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Perfect for snacking or as a dip for your favorite veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup roasted sweet peas (see roasting instructions below)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast sweet peas in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted sweet peas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
4. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
5. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add olive oil in a thin stream.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve with pita chips, carrot sticks, or your favorite dippers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes roasting sweet peas)
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Risotto
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Risotto: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dish
This creamy risotto combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in sautéed mushrooms and sweet peas.
5. If using white wine, add it during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry
This vibrant curry is a delightful twist on traditional Indian dishes, combining the natural sweetness of sweet peas with the earthy flavor of potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add potatoes, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in sweet peas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Croquettes
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Croquettes: A Delicious Twist on Classic Italian Comfort Food
These crispy, cheesy bites are a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering. Sweet peas add natural sweetness and freshness to the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked sweet peas and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add flour, egg, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Using your hands, shape the dough into small cylinders, about 1 inch long.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the size of your croquettes.
Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring the tender sweetness of fresh sweet peas and the earthy taste of spinach. It’s an ideal brunch option for springtime gatherings or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups sweet peas, shelled
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add sweet peas and spinach leaves to the egg mixture; stir gently.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Sweet Peas with Almonds
Sweeten up your summer with this simple yet impressive side dish: Honey Glazed Sweet Peas with Almonds. This sweet and savory recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and can be easily scaled up for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the sweet peas and remove any stems or leaves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the sweet peas to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the honey glaze.
5. Spread the sweet peas out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the sweet peas.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet peas are tender and caramelized.
8. Remove from oven and drizzle with water to stop cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Feta Cheese Tart
This refreshing tart combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, perfect for a light and flavorful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together sweet peas, sugar, and melted butter.
4. Arrange the pea mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese evenly over the peas.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush edges with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast
This refreshing twist on classic avocado toast combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the creaminess of ripe avocados, all on top of crispy bread. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup cooked sweet peas (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Spoon the cooked sweet peas over the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add any optional toppings if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Sweet Pea Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a delightful twist on traditional pancakes by incorporating the sweet and tender flavor of fresh sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup pureed cooked sweet peas (about 1 cup fresh)
– Unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and pureed sweet peas.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch
Sweet Pea and Carrot Puree for Babies
Sweet Pea and Carrot Puree: A Wholesome Starter Food for Babies
This puree is a delicious and nutritious first food for babies, made with sweet peas and carrots. It’s easy to make and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 1/2 cup cooked carrots
– 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked sweet peas and carrots.
2. Add breast milk or formula if desired to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to thin out the puree.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more breast milk or formula.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve warm or at room temperature.
– Use as a first food or mix with other purees for variety.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Sweet Pea and Chicken Stir Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the savory taste of chicken, all in one quick and easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas (or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add sweet peas; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Shrimp Scampi
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the succulence of shrimp, all wrapped up in a flavorful scampi sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the sweet peas for 3-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine and lemon juice, add them to the skillet and stir to deglaze.
5. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted. Add the blanched sweet peas and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve the scampi sauce over the cooked shrimp, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Corn Fritters
Sweet Pea and Corn Fritters Recipe
A delicious summer treat that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the crunch of corn, these fritters are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine sweet peas, corn kernels, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula or back of spoon.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot. Optional: sprinkle chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Sweet Pea and Basil Pesto
Sweet Pea and Basil Pesto Recipe
This vibrant green pesto is a perfect blend of sweet peas, fragrant basil, and tangy garlic, making it a delicious addition to any dish. Use it as a sauce for pasta, as a dip for vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine sweet peas, basil leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Pea and Coconut Milk Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas and rich coconut milk, making it a delightful twist on traditional pea soups. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint leaves for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
3. Add the soaked peas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 delectable sweet pea recipes! From creamy soups and pasta dishes to savory salads and indulgent desserts, there’s something for every occasion. Discover how sweet peas can be used in a variety of creative ways, such as in risottos, curries, and even baby purees. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity.
