Having peas while growing up was a family tradition for me.
I enjoy peas in many dishes; their natural sweetness enhances meals for everyday dinners and special occasions. They’ve been a staple on our holiday table for years.
Typically I prepare them simply—lots of butter, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Today I’ve given my favorite version a light refresh by adding mint and lemon.
Mint and lemon pair naturally, adding bright freshness and a touch of tartness that balances the peas’ sweetness. This combination has become a family favorite, and I hope you’ll enjoy it too.
In this Article
- Mint peas – an Irish and English side dish
- Tips on ingredients
- Equipment needed
- Cooking tips and step-by-step instructions
- Fresh or frozen peas?
- How to cook frozen peas
- What to serve with minted peas
Mint peas – an Irish and English side dish
Mint peas have roots in Irish cooking where they were often a summer side served with lamb or pork. In England, you’ll find bright green minted peas or mushy peas offered with fish and chips.
Either way, the fresh peas and mint make a versatile side that complements many mains.
Tips on ingredients
This is a short overview—refer to the recipe below for full details.
Frozen peas: Choose small peas when possible; they’re tender and cook quickly.
Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter gives you better control of the seasoning.
Fresh mint: Fresh mint brightens the dish and works beautifully with lemon.
Lemon zest: Zest only the yellow part of the peel; avoid the bitter white pith.
Equipment needed
Basic tools are all you need:
- Small saucepan to cook the peas.
- Small bowl for mixing butter, mint, and lemon zest.
- Grater or zester for the lemon.
- Colander or slotted spoon to drain the peas.
- A serving plate—white works well to showcase the bright green color.
Cooking tips and step-by-step instructions to create these minted peas
The method is quick and simple:
- Add peas and a small amount of water to a saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until tender.
- Drain the peas and transfer them to a bowl.
- While the peas cook, combine softened butter, finely chopped fresh mint, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
- Stir the mint-lemon butter into the warm peas, season to taste, and serve immediately.
That’s it—an easy side ready in under 15 minutes.
Fresh Peas or Frozen Peas?
Fresh peas are delicious, but for consistency and convenience I recommend frozen peas for this recipe. Frozen peas are usually uniform in size and reliably tender, which makes results predictable and quick.
How to cook frozen peas
Cooking frozen peas is straightforward. Place peas in a small pot with about ½ cup of water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender—usually just a few minutes. Drain and proceed with the mint-lemon butter step.
From start to finish, it takes about 10 minutes.
What to serve with your minted peas
These minted peas pair well with many mains. They are especially good with lamb, beef, and fish.
Serve them with roast lamb for a spring holiday or alongside corned beef for a bright, seasonal contrast.
More recipes to try
Lamb Patties Recipe
Parmesan Panko-Crusted Chicken Cutlets
Caramelized Garlic and Goat Cheese Tart
Queso Fresco Stuffed Tomatoes
Petits Pois à la Française
Equipment needed to make this recipe of peas with mint
Refer to the simple equipment list above: small saucepan, small bowl, zester, and strainer or colander.
Mint Peas
Ingredients
- 1½ cups frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
-
In a small saucepan add the peas and ½ cup water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender.
-
Meanwhile, in a small bowl mix the softened butter, chopped mint, and lemon zest.
-
Drain the peas and place them in a serving bowl. Add the mint-lemon butter and toss to coat. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Nutrition figures are estimates and not calculated by a registered dietitian.
- Course: Sides, Vegetables
- Cuisine: French
- Season: Spring, Summer
- Type: Affordable Gourmet
Did you make this?
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Originally published on March 3, 2020. Updated on February 28, 2023.