Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas
A bright, tender-crisp dish that elevates everyday meals with minimal effort.
Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas: A Springtime Delight
Sugar snap peas are a joy of spring, offering a delightful combination of crunch and sweetness that makes them a versatile ingredient for various dishes. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone snack, add them to pasta primavera, or incorporate them into spring salads and Easter dinners, their charm is undeniable. This simple recipe elevates sugar snap peas to a new level with a quick sauté in olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and finished with butter and lemon juice.
**How to Eat Sugar Snap Peas**
Sugar snap peas are uniquely delicious because their entire pod – including the peas inside – is edible. When fresh and in season, they can be enjoyed raw for their full crunch or briefly sautéed to maintain their snappy texture while adding a bit of tenderness. This contrasts with English pea pods, where only the peas inside are typically eaten.
**Preparing Sugar Snap Peas**
Preparing sugar snap peas is straightforward. To start, look for a small string at the ends of the peas. Snap the corner near the stem, then pull the string down along the length of the pod. Sometimes, strings may be present on both sides of the pod, so be sure to remove them completely for optimal taste and texture.
**Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas Recipe**
Ingredients
- 1 lb. sugar snap peas
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. butter
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
Directions
- Remove the strings from the snap peas and discard them.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it to coat the pan evenly. Then, add the snap peas, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender yet crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the butter and lemon juice, stirring well to coat the peas evenly. Serve immediately.
**Customizing Your Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas**
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences:
- Savory Twist: Omit the salt and add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a savory flavor.
- Elegant Touch: Sprinkle fresh spring herbs like parsley, dill, or chives on top for a refined look and taste.
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Add 1 chopped clove of garlic to the skillet alongside the peas for an extra depth of flavor.
**FAQs**
Q: What is the best way to cook sugar snap peas?
A: The best way to cook sugar snap peas is by quickly sautéing them in a skillet with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then finishing with butter and lemon juice off the heat.
Q: Can I eat sugar snap peas raw?
A: Yes, sugar snap peas can be enjoyed raw, as their entire pod is edible and crunchy.
Q: How do I prepare sugar snap peas for cooking?
A: To prepare sugar snap peas, simply snap the ends, pull off the strings, and they are ready to cook.
**Conclusion**
Sautéed sugar snap peas offer a quick and delicious way to enjoy the sweetness of spring. Whether you keep it simple or add your own twist, this versatile vegetable is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38975659/sauteed-sugar-snap-peas-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a42792386/air-fryer-snap-peas-recipe/
- https://www.everydaycookingadventures.com/the-pioneer-womans-beef-with-snow-peas/
- http://www.justtherightsize.net/2017/02/sauteed-sugar-snap-peas-with-pine-nuts.html
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g46768127/pea-recipes/
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