Looking for a quick, healthy, and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any American meal? Look no further than our Buttered Peas Recipe from FoodvLove. Whether you're prepping for a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving a taste of home, these buttery green peas are a delicious complement to any main course.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make buttered peas in under 15 minutes, why they’re a great choice for families, plus some nutritional tips and serving ideas.
What Are Buttered Peas?
Buttered peas are a classic American side dish made by cooking fresh or frozen green peas and tossing them with butter, salt, and sometimes herbs for added flavor. This simple recipe is popular across the United States due to its ease, affordability, and nostalgic flavor.
Why Are Buttered Peas Popular in the U.S.?
In American homes, peas with butter are often served alongside roast chicken, mashed potatoes, pork chops, or baked fish. The sweet taste of peas mixed with creamy butter creates a well-balanced flavor, and the vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any plate.
From the Midwest to the South, many families consider buttered peas a staple in their dinner routine, holiday meals, and potluck gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic buttered peas, you only need a handful of pantry staples:
2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh mint or parsley (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Notes:
Frozen peas are ideal for convenience and are usually flash-frozen to retain nutrients.
Use unsalted butter so you can control the sodium level.
For extra richness, you can substitute a tablespoon of butter with a splash of heavy cream.
How to Make Buttered Peas (Step-by-Step)
Follow this simple, foolproof method to make buttery peas in just 10–15 minutes.
Step 1: Cook the Peas
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add peas and cook for 3–5 minutes (fresh peas) or 2–3 minutes (frozen peas) until bright green and tender.
Step 2: Drain and Sauté
Drain the peas and immediately return them to the warm pot. Add butter and gently stir until melted and evenly coated.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Add salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Serve hot as a side dish.
Pro Tips from FoodvLove
Don’t overcook: Overcooking peas can make them mushy and dull their color.
Add garlic: Sauté a clove of minced garlic in butter before adding peas for an aromatic twist.
For picky eaters: Mash some of the peas and mix with butter to create a creamy texture that kids often love.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of buttered peas:
Calories: 130
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 7g
Sugars: 5g
Buttered peas are low in calories, rich in fiber, and provide key vitamins like Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and folate.
What to Serve with Buttered Peas
This easy vegetable side dish pairs well with many traditional American entrees. Try serving them with:
Grilled chicken or turkey
Roast beef or meatloaf
Baked salmon or cod
Mashed potatoes and gravy
Mac and cheese for a Southern-style comfort meal
Looking for more inspiration? Check out more veggie recipes at FoodvLove.com.
Variations Add-Ons
Want to take your buttered peas up a notch? Try these easy upgrades:
Buttered Peas and Onions: Sauté diced onions in butter before adding the peas.
Buttered Peas with Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon over the top for a savory crunch.
Lemon Butter Peas: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and balance.
Creamed Peas: Stir in a splash of milk or cream for a richer sauce.
Can You Freeze Buttered Peas?
Yes! Allow peas to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore the butter coating.
SEO Tips for Food Bloggers (If You’re Sharing This Recipe)
If you run a recipe blog or food website like FoodvLove, here are quick SEO wins:
Use structured data with
RecipeandVideoObjectmarkup.Include a video demonstration with an embedded URL.
Add "Buttered Peas Recipe" and related terms (e.g., "easy side dish", "peas with butter", "quick vegetable side") naturally.
Geo-target U.S. searchers by mentioning holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving) or meals (e.g., Sunday roast dinner).
Final Thoughts from FoodvLove
The beauty of this Buttered Peas Recipe is in its simplicity. In a world full of complicated meals, buttered peas remind us that delicious doesn't have to be difficult. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just whipping up a quick meal for one, this timeless side dish deserves a spot on your plate.
Ready to elevate your meals with more easy recipes like this? Visit FoodvLove.com and join our community of home cooks across the United States who love simple, nourishing food.
