Besides being easy to cook, frozen peas also don't require a complicated peeling process just to make a simple dish. Peas are a simple and healthy addition to any meal, serve them as a accompaniment or part of a soup or pasta dish.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Cooking Peas Using the Stove
Step 1. Boil 3-4 cups of water
Using a medium-sized saucepan, bring the water to a boil and the surface continues to bubble.
Step 2. Carefully pour the peas from the wrapper into the boiling water
Stir gently and let the peas cook, open the lid of the pot.
If the peas are frozen in large chunks, use a wooden spoon to remove them and make sure they cook evenly
Step 3. Remove the peas from the stove after 2-3 minutes
Remove the peas using a fork or slotted spoon, then blow gently to cool quickly. Try the peas after they have cooled – they should be soft and easy to chew, like ripe beans.
Cooking frozen peas usually takes 3-4 minutes
Step 4. Drain the peas
This can be done by slowly pouring the water out of the pot or pouring the peas into a colander.
Step 5. Stir 1-2 tablespoons of butter in the peas to prevent sticking
While this isn't mandatory, it can give the peas a richer flavor and keep them from sticking or crumbling.
Use a few drops of olive oil in place of butter for a healthier option
Method 2 of 3: Microwave Cooking Peas
Step 1. Place the frozen peas directly on a plate, then heat for 2 minutes in the microwave
To make the peas softer, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water on top before cooking.
Each microwave works differently, so try eating the peas after two minutes and re-cooking them longer if necessary
Step 2. Pour the frozen peas into a covered pyrex dish and microwave for two minutes
The peas will be steamed rather than boiled, and the result will be tougher than usual. You can also add water or 2 tablespoons of butter before cooking for a richer flavour.
Step 3. Place the heatproof bag of peas directly into the microwave and cook for 2-3 minutes
Some frozen peas are made to be cooked right in the bag. Remove the bag of peas from the freezer and place in the microwave, cooking for as long as needed. Packed peas should be refrigerated for 4-5 minutes after cooking. Usually the bag contains hot steam which can injure you if you open it immediately.
If it doesn't say "heat resistant" on the package, don't put it in the microwave
Method 3 of 3: Using Frozen Peas
Step 1. Cook peas in butter, garlic, and onions for a simple side dish
This is a great way to serve frozen peas. It's easy, heat 1-2 tablespoons of butter in a large frying pan, then add 1 chopped onion, and 2-3 chopped garlic cloves. After 2-3 minutes, add frozen peas immediately. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
Add a little olive oil and cheese to make a delicious addition to pasta dishes
Step 2. Cook peas with 2 cups of chicken stock to make a simple pea soup
Cook peas with 2 tbsp butter, onion and garlic. After 4-5 minutes, add the chicken stock and cook everything over medium heat for another 5 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Turn off the stove. Once the mixture has cooled, puree it in a food processor to make a delicious simple pea soup.
Add green herbs such as dill or chives for flavor, as well as salt and pepper for flavour
Step 3. Mash cooked peas with mint leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and parmesan cheese to make a simple spread
This mint pea pesto sauce recipe is perfect for toast. Place 1 bag of cooked peas in a food processor and process until smooth, then add:
- Handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cloves of minced garlic
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon juice, for flavor
- Mix all ingredients until smooth and spread, if necessary add more olive oil
Step 4. Mix cooled ripe peas with tomatoes and herbs for a simple salad
Simple but elegant, ripe peas can be a special ingredient for salads. Add cherry tomatoes, parsley, salt, and a dash of balsam vinegar for a refreshing tropical flavor.
- Consider cooking the peas a little longer so they aren't too tender when serving in a salad.
- Ripe peas are also great for making spinach or lettuce salads.