Thanksgiving Peas are a simple yet flavorful side dish that adds a bright, fresh touch to the holiday table. Cooked just until tender and tossed with butter, herbs, and sometimes a hint of sweetness, these peas complement rich, hearty dishes like turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes beautifully. I love how they offer a pop of color and a mild, comforting flavor that even picky eaters enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I really appreciate about this recipe is how easy and quick it is to prepare—especially when everything else on Thanksgiving requires more time and effort. I can make them with fresh or frozen peas, and with just a few ingredients, they taste like something special. They’re mild enough to not overpower other dishes but still flavorful and fresh on their own.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen or fresh green peas

• Unsalted butter

• Garlic (minced) or shallots (optional)

• Fresh parsley or dill (chopped)

• Salt and black pepper

• A pinch of sugar or honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

• Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Directions

1. I bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil and add the peas. I cook them for 2–3 minutes if frozen, or 4–5 minutes if fresh, just until tender but still bright green.

2. I drain the peas and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and lock in the color. After a minute, I drain them again.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, I melt butter and sauté garlic or shallots until fragrant (if using).

4. I add the peas to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and stir gently to coat them in the butter.

5. I finish them with a pinch of sugar or honey if I want a hint of sweetness, and stir in fresh herbs just before serving.

6. For extra brightness, I sometimes add a little lemon zest on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 15 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory upgrade.

• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese gives the peas a rich, salty finish.

• For a creamy version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream.

• Toasted almonds or pine nuts add crunch and a nutty twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet with a bit of butter over medium-low heat until hot. I avoid the microwave if I want to keep their texture crisp and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use canned peas?

I prefer not to, as they tend to be too soft and dull in color. Frozen or fresh peas give the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I blanch the peas and refrigerate them. Right before serving, I sauté them with butter and herbs to reheat and finish.

What herbs go best with peas?

I usually use parsley or dill, but thyme, mint, or even tarragon also pair nicely depending on the meal.

Can I serve these cold?

Yes, I sometimes turn them into a cold pea salad with lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.

Do I need to thaw frozen peas before cooking?

No, I add them directly to boiling water or the skillet—they cook quickly and stay bright and sweet.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Peas are one of those side dishes that I keep coming back to—simple, quick, and always a hit. Whether I dress them up with herbs and extras or keep them classic with butter and salt, they bring freshness and color to the Thanksgiving spread. They’re the kind of dish that proves sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most memorable.

Thanksgiving Peas

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• Author: Evee
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Thanksgiving Peas are a quick and easy side dish made with green peas, butter, and fresh herbs. Light, colorful, and flavorful, they’re the perfect fresh complement to a rich holiday meal.

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Ingredients

3 cups frozen or fresh green peas

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 clove garlic, minced (or 1 small shallot, finely chopped, optional)

2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp sugar or honey (optional)

1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas and cook for 2–3 minutes if frozen or 4–5 minutes if fresh, until tender and bright green.
2. Drain and transfer peas to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. After 1 minute, drain again.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic or shallots (if using) and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add the peas to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat in butter.
5. Stir in sugar or honey if using, and toss with fresh herbs just before serving.
6. Top with lemon zest for added brightness, if desired.

Notes

Add crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory twist.

Stir in Parmesan for richness and saltiness.

Make it creamy with a splash of cream or sour cream.

Add toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.

Can be served warm or chilled as a salad with lemon and olive oil.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg