Thanksgiving Peas are not just a side dish; they are the unsung heroes of the holiday feast. Picture this: vibrant green peas, glistening with butter, nestled next to the turkey, just begging for your attention. perfectly paired Thanksgiving turkey rolls Their sweet and slightly earthy flavor adds a delightful pop of color and taste to your plate, making them a must-have on any Thanksgiving table. hearty vegetable curry recipe.
But let’s be real for a moment. When was the last time you heard someone rave about peas? I mean, they often take a backseat to the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Yet, as you scoop them onto your plate, there’s something magical about those little green gems that brings warmth and nostalgia. They remind me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and the only thing brighter than Grandma’s smile was her famous Thanksgiving Peas. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy White Bean Soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for Thanksgiving Peas is unbelievably easy to prepare, making it perfect even for kitchen novices
- The combination of fresh herbs and butter creates a burst of flavor that will impress everyone
- With their bright green color, these peas add visual appeal to your holiday spread
- They’re versatile enough to enjoy year-round, not just during Thanksgiving!
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin accidentally mistook the peas for some fancy green dessert—he was quite surprised when he got a spoonful of buttery goodness instead!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Green Peas: Opt for sweet garden peas for maximum flavor; frozen peas work well too if you’re short on time.
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Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for richness; it makes all the difference in flavor.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding mint elevates this dish with a refreshing twist; pick vibrant leaves for best results.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
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Lemon Zest: A hint of citrus brightens up the dish; make sure to use fresh zest for an aromatic kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Peas: Start by rinsing your fresh or frozen green peas under cold water until they are clean and vibrant. This helps remove any impurities or frost from frozen ones.
Cook Them Up: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly. homemade cranberry sauce Add the peas and stir gently, letting them cook until they turn bright green and tender—about 3-5 minutes.
Add Flavor Bombs: Toss in freshly chopped mint leaves along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined and fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
Zest It Up!: Incorporate lemon zest into the mix—this adds a lovely zing that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peas. Stir again and let everything meld together for an additional minute.
Serve with Love: Transfer your beautifully cooked Thanksgiving Peas onto a serving platter. Drizzle with an extra pat of butter if you’re feeling indulgent. Garnish with more fresh mint leaves for an impressive touch!
With these simple steps, you’ve transformed humble peas into an unforgettable side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy these delightful morsels alongside your turkey or even as part of a veggie medley.
Now that you’ve mastered Thanksgiving Peas, don’t be surprised if they steal the spotlight away from that beautifully roasted turkey!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Peas are not just a side dish; they can steal the show with their vibrant color and buttery flavor
- They’re quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday kitchens
- Plus, they bring a delightful crunch that complements richer dishes beautifully
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching the peas in boiling water for about two minutes, then quickly shock them in ice water. This keeps their bright green color and crisp texture intact while you prepare other ingredients.

Add Your Touch
Consider adding crispy bacon bits or toasted almonds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch to your Thanksgiving Peas. essential Thanksgiving side dishes A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also enhance their appeal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently sauté them over low heat or microwave until warmed through, preserving that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh peas for the best flavor and texture; frozen peas can work in a pinch but might lose some crunch
- Make sure to season well with salt and pepper to elevate the dish
- A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors immensely
Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without a fun mishap involving these peas! One year, I accidentally spilled a bowl of them all over my cousin’s lap—his expression was priceless and definitely made it a memorable meal!

FAQ
Can I use frozen peas for Thanksgiving Peas?
Yes, but fresh peas offer better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
How do I prevent overcooking my peas?
Blanch them briefly in boiling water and immediately transfer to ice water to halt cooking.
What herbs pair well with Thanksgiving Peas?
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill complement the sweetness of peas beautifully.
Thanksgiving Peas
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Peas are a vibrant, buttery side dish that brings a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table. With fresh mint and a hint of lemon zest, these sweet green gems not only complement your turkey but also elevate your entire feast. Quick to prepare and bursting with nostalgia, Thanksgiving Peas are sure to steal the show this holiday season!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh green peas (or 1 cup frozen peas)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Rinse fresh or frozen peas under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add peas and cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender.
- Stir in chopped mint, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add lemon zest and mix for an additional minute.
- Serve warm on a platter, garnished with extra mint.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (75g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg





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