Perfectly Blanched Sugar Snap Peas with Lemon Mint
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Sugar Snap Peas Side Dish Delight!
Fancy a sugar snap peas recipe that's both simple and seriously tasty? Honestly, these blanched sugar snap peas are a game changer.
They are wonderfully crisp and light. This is a quick easy sugar snap peas recipe for you.
Brief Overview: From Garden to Plate in Minutes
This fresh sugar snap peas recipe hails from a desire to enjoy spring's bounty. This sugar snap peas recipe is ready in under 10 minutes.
It's a simple side dish. Makes 4 delicious servings.
Main Benefits: A Burst of Freshness
These sugar snap peas with lemon and mint are bursting with flavor. They are also surprisingly good for you! The sugar snap peas nutrition profile is impressive.
Serve this for a quick lunch or alongside grilled fish. It's special because it turns simple ingredients into something truly vibrant.
Perfectly Blanched Sugar Snap Peas
I remember my first attempt at cooking peas. They were mushy. Thankfully, I've learned since then. Now, I make the best sugar snap pea salad . This recipe will show you how!
Prep Time : 5 mins Cook Time : 3 mins Total Time : 8 mins Serves : 4
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 pound (450g) fresh sugar snap peas , trimmed
- 2 quarts (2 liters) water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Cook Sugar Snap Peas: The Method
- First, prepare an ice bath. It should be ready and waiting.
- Bring water and salt to a boil. Add sugar snap peas . Cook 2- 3 minutes. Get them crisp tender sugar snap peas .
- Immediately drain the peas. Plunge them into the ice bath. Leave for 1- 2 minutes.
- Drain the peas well. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mint, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat).
- Toss the peas with the dressing. Season with salt to taste. Serve immediately this quick sugar snap pea recipe
Now that you know how to make this sugar snap peas side dish , let's move on to some fun tips!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Right then, let's talk about what you'll need for this cracking sugar snap peas recipe . Honestly, it's so simple. I had some fresh sugar snap peas recipe last week at a farmer’s market and it was so good, that’s the only reason why I’m sharing this with you.
It's the perfect sugar snap peas side dish!
Main Ingredients for Your Sugar Snap Peas
- 1 pound (450g) fresh sugar snap peas , trimmed and stringed. Get the freshest you can find! They should be firm and bright green.
- 2 quarts (2 liters) water – for blanching.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt – for the blanching water. It seasons the peas from the inside out! Plus more for seasoning at the end.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – good quality stuff. It makes a difference!
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint – because everything's better with mint, innit?
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – a little kick.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) - if you like a bit of heat.
Seasoning Sensations for Blanched Sugar Snap Peas
The magic's in the simplicity. Lemon and mint are a match made in heaven. Fresh is always best when it comes to herbs and citrus.
If you are not a fan of mint, you can easily substitute that for basil.
Want a bit of Asian flair? Try soy sauce and sesame oil instead!
Gear Up: Equipment You'll Need
You really don't need much to get started with this easy sugar snap peas recipe . Honestly, most of the stuff you probably already have at home.
- Large pot for boiling water.
- Colander for draining those crisp tender sugar snap peas .
- Large bowl for tossing everything together.
- Whisk to mix the dressing.
Honestly, this quick sugar snap pea recipe is a doddle. How to cook sugar snap peas is easier than boiling an egg.
You will love the fresh and sugar snap peas with lemon and mint . You should expect to obtain a great sugar snap pea salad once you are done with all the steps.
Plus, it's good for you! Did you know about the sugar snap peas nutrition and the vitamins it provides? I'll see you in the instructions.
Enjoy your blanched sugar snap peas !
Alright, let's get into the nitty gritty of making some seriously good sugar snap peas! I'm talking about that crisp tender perfection that makes you go, "Oh my gosh, where have these been all my life?".
This isn’t just any old side dish, it's a flavor explosion!
Perfectly Blanched Sugar Snap Peas: Your New Fave Side
I always thought cooking veggies was boring. Until I discovered this easy sugar snap peas recipe . Now? It's on repeat! This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of fresh sugar snap peas , and honestly, it's a game changer.
Prep Like a Pro
First things first, the mise en place , darling! Get your 1 pound (450g) of fresh sugar snap peas , trim the ends, and remove those pesky strings.
Honestly, this is the most time consuming part. Have your 2 quarts (2 liters) of water, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy).
Now, here's a time saver: do this while the water heats!
Blanching Bliss: step-by-step
- Ice Bath Time: Fill a large bowl with ice water and set aside. Crucial!
- Boil, Baby, Boil: Bring your water and 1 tablespoon salt to a rolling boil in a large pot.
- Pea Party: Add your sugar snap peas and cook for 2- 3 minutes . Aim for that vibrant green, crisp tender stage. Not mushy!
- Shock and Awe: Drain the peas and plunge them into the ice bath for 1- 2 minutes . Stops the cooking like magic.
- Dress 'Em Up: Drain the peas really well. Whisk together your olive oil, lemon juice, mint, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Toss and Serve: Add the peas to the dressing and toss gently. Season with salt to taste. Serve immediately for that quick sugar snap pea recipe win!
Pro Tips for Pea Perfection
- Avoid Overcooking: Seriously, it's the biggest mistake. Soggy peas are a no-go. Aim for al dente , like pasta.
- Lemon Zest Boost: Add a little lemon zest to the dressing. It amps up the flavour!
- make-ahead? Kinda: You can prep the peas (trimmed and strung) a day ahead. But dress them right before serving.
Honestly, this sugar snap peas with lemon and mint recipe is a total winner. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Plus, did you know sugar snap peas nutrition includes a good dose of fiber? Bonus! So ditch the boring sides and give this a whirl.
I promise, you'll be hooked. Serve it with grilled salmon for a fancy feeling dinner.
Recipe Notes: Making Your Sugar Snap Pea Side Dish Shine
Alright, so you've got the basic easy sugar snap peas recipe down, but let's chat about taking it to the next level! Honestly, it's the little things that make all the difference.
I've messed up a few times myself and learned from those mishaps. You know?
Serving Suggestions: "Wow" Your Guests
Presentation is key! A simple plating of the sugar snap peas with lemon and mint on a nice dish is a winner.
Scatter a few extra mint leaves on top for a pop of colour. Think about serving these bright blanched sugar snap peas alongside grilled salmon or a perfectly roasted chicken.
They also add a nice crisp tender sugar snap peas element to a quinoa salad. They're so versatile! For a drink? A crisp Sauvignon Blanc would be lovely.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries! Store your cooked fresh sugar snap peas recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
They might lose a little of their crisp factor, but they'll still taste great. Freezing isn't really recommended, as they can get a bit mushy.
To reheat, gently warm them in a pan with a little olive oil or microwave for 30 seconds.
Variations: Put Your Own Stamp On It
Want to mix things up? You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your needs. For a dairy-free version, just make sure your salad dressing doesn't include any dairy products.
For a flavour twist, try adding a pinch of ginger for a lovely sweetness. You can also swap the mint for basil if you're feeling adventurous.
You know I love options!
Sugar Snap Peas Nutrition: Goodness in Every Bite
Did you know that sugar snap peas nutrition is actually really good for you? Each serving is roughly 80 calories.
They are packed with fibre and vitamins. Fibre helps with digestion. Sugar snap peas also help with reducing Sodium, but salt can make it much higher.
They are a low-calorie, healthy option. This quick sugar snap pea recipe is a great choice for a healthy meal!
So there you have it! A super quick sugar snap pea recipe that’s easy to make, and full of flavour.
Whether you're serving it at a fancy dinner party or enjoying a simple lunch, I hope you love it as much as I do.
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get the best flavor from this sugar snap peas recipe?
The key to a delicious sugar snap pea recipe is to not overcook them! Blanching them briefly in boiling water and then immediately shocking them in an ice bath preserves their bright green color and crisp tender texture.
Also, using fresh, high-quality ingredients like fresh lemon juice and mint for the dressing will make a world of difference.
Can I make this sugar snap peas recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely prep certain elements ahead of time. Trimming and stringing the sugar snap peas can be done a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. However, it's best to blanch the peas and toss them with the dressing just before serving to ensure they retain their optimal texture and flavor.
Nobody wants soggy peas!
What are some tasty variations I can try with this sugar snap peas recipe?
Absolutely! For a flavor boost, add a clove of minced garlic to the lemon mint dressing. If you're feeling adventurous, try an Asian inspired version with soy sauce, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds.
Also, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or parsley if you don't have mint on hand variety is the spice of life!
How should I store leftover sugar snap peas?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They're best consumed within 1-2 days, as they will lose some of their crispness over time. You might find that the dressing mutes as it marinates, so you might want to refresh with a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving.
Are sugar snap peas healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Indeed, sugar snap peas are a healthy and delicious addition to any diet! They are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which aids in digestion. This sugar snap peas recipe, when prepared with olive oil and fresh herbs, is a light and nutritious way to enjoy this vibrant vegetable.
Plus, they're relatively low in calories, making them a guilt free side dish.
Can I grill sugar snap peas instead of blanching them for this recipe?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic alternative! Toss the sugar snap peas with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill them over medium heat for just a few minutes, until they are slightly charred and tender crisp. Be careful not to overcook them as the grilling process happens quickly!
Then, toss them with the lemon mint dressing as described in the recipe.
Perfectly Blanched Sugar Snap Peas With Lemon Mi
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 80 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
