Minty Peas and Onions Recipe
If you’re looking for a dazzling, bright side dish that celebrates simplicity while bursting with flavor, this Minty Peas and Onions recipe is absolutely for you. The classic combo of sweet, tender peas and silky onions is made extraordinary with a shower of fresh mint and a hint of lemon. In just 15 minutes, you can have a bowlful of vibrant green goodness that will enliven any meal—whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something quick, fresh, and deeply satisfying. Minty Peas and Onions is truly the unsung hero of springtime (or anytime) tables!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Minty Peas and Onions comes from just a handful of everyday ingredients, each with a distinct purpose. These essentials work together to create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, with every element contributing its own special touch.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich base and mellows the sharpness of the onion, making the dish lush and comforting.
- Olive Oil: Adds fruity undertones and ensures nothing sticks to the pan, blending beautifully with butter’s creaminess.
- Yellow Onion: Sliced thin, it turns mellow and sweet as it sautés, infusing the peas with depth and warmth.
- Frozen Green Peas: A kitchen staple, they deliver that sweet, fresh pop and vivid color—thaw them for best texture.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: The key to lifting peas and onion from ordinary to extraordinary; chop just before using for maximum flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and balance—don’t be shy, taste and adjust to your liking!
- Lemon Zest: Optional but recommended for a lively citrus spark that pairs perfectly with mint.
- Lemon Juice: Also optional, but a squeeze brightens the whole dish and brings everything together.
How to Make Minty Peas and Onions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture shimmers. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion, stirring occasionally. Be patient here—the onion should soften and become lightly golden, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This step allows the onions’ natural sweetness to develop, setting the stage for Minty Peas and Onions to really shine.
Step 2: Warm the Peas
Once your onions have achieved that irresistible golden softness, it’s time to add the thawed green peas. Stir them into the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the peas are hot all the way through but still bright green and plump. Don’t overcook—the freshness is what makes Minty Peas and Onions pop!
Step 3: Stir in the Mint and Season
Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh mint. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste, giving it all a gentle toss to combine. If you’re going for that extra boost of brightness, this is also the perfect moment to add lemon zest and juice. The fresh herbs and citrus wake up all the flavors, turning Minty Peas and Onions into an aromatic, lively side.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Serve your Minty Peas and Onions while they’re warm, so every bite feels like a comforting, freshly-picked celebration of springtime. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle on some crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor just before serving. This dish will be the green centerpiece of your meal.
How to Serve Minty Peas and Onions
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Minty Peas and Onions with a little extra chopped fresh mint, a pinch of flaky sea salt, or a bit of lemon zest. If you have feta or goat cheese on hand, the salty creaminess plays wonderfully with the sweet peas and herbal notes. Toasted pine nuts or almonds will add crunch and a subtle nutty aroma.
Side Dishes
Minty Peas and Onions are incredibly versatile—pair them with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or alongside a fluffy pile of mashed potatoes. They’re a match made in heaven for lamb, and they bring color and freshness to any vegetarian main dish. For spring parties, serve next to quiche or as part of an outdoor picnic spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling Minty Peas and Onions over creamy ricotta toast, or spoon them atop a bed of buttered couscous for an easy lunch. Toss the mixture with tiny pearl pasta, or scatter it over avocado toast for a green, zesty upgrade. You can even use it as a filling for omelets or frittatas—the fresh mint makes everything sing!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Minty Peas and Onions, let them cool first, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days—the flavors actually intensify as they sit, making for delicious next-day nibbles.
Freezing
Do you want to stash some away? Minty Peas and Onions can be frozen, though the mint may lose some vibrancy. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. To brighten them up after thawing, stir in a little fresh mint and lemon juice before serving.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra olive oil—just until warmed through. This helps preserve the peas’ tender texture and the onions’ subtle sweetness. If you’re in a rush, a quick microwave zap will also do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re lucky enough to find fresh or shelled English peas in season, give them a quick blanch in boiling water before adding them to the skillet. Fresh peas bring even more sweetness and crunch to Minty Peas and Onions.
What kind of mint works best?
Classic spearmint is the go-to for most recipes, but peppermint will work in a pinch. Just use fresh leaves and chop them right before adding to preserve the flavor. Minty Peas and Onions gets all its herbal brightness from the mint, so choose the freshest you can find.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, easily! Simply swap the butter for an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You’ll still get that luscious, glossy finish that makes Minty Peas and Onions feel extra special, with every bite plant-powered.
How can I add more protein?
Toss in a handful of crumbled feta or chickpeas for a protein boost. Feta gives a tangy richness to the dish, while chickpeas add heartiness—either way, these additions make Minty Peas and Onions more filling for lunch or a light dinner.
Can I make Minty Peas and Onions ahead of time?
Totally! You can sauté the onions and peas ahead, then stir in the mint and lemon just before serving. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. Perfect for picnics or prepping in advance for holiday gatherings!
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the way this Minty Peas and Onions recipe comes together—easy enough for weeknights, yet refined enough for memorable moments. If you’re ready to bring a fresh, green spark to your next meal, give this dish a try and watch it light up your table. Enjoy every minty, savory bite!
Print
Minty Peas and Onions Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful and vibrant side dish that combines the sweetness of green peas with the aromatic freshness of mint and onions. This Minty Peas and Onions recipe is a quick and easy way to elevate any meal with its burst of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Minty Peas and Onions:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups frozen green peas, thawed
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted.
- Sauté Onions: Add the sliced onions and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
- Add Peas: Add the peas and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until heated through.
- Flavor with Mint: Stir in chopped mint, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine.
- Optional Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest and juice if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For added texture, consider mixing in crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts just before serving.
- When in season, fresh or shelled English peas can be used—just blanch them before adding to the pan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
