This 3-ingredient buttered sweet peas recipe is my streamlined take on the kind of dish that always seemed to be quietly bubbling away on my grandmother’s back burner during the holidays. It’s simple, kid-friendly, and surprisingly comforting—the peas turn tender and sweet, and the butter melts into a rich, glossy sauce that coats every bite.
If you’re juggling work, kids, and a busy kitchen, this is the kind of low-effort side that practically makes itself while you focus on the rest of dinner, yet still feels special enough for a holiday table.
Small saucepan of buttery sweet peas on a home stove
Serve these buttered sweet peas warm in a vintage-style bowl or any small serving dish, with a spoon so everyone can help themselves. They pair perfectly with roast chicken, turkey, ham, or meatloaf, and they’re great alongside mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or buttered egg noodles to soak up that glossy butter sauce.
For a lighter meal, add them to a plate of baked salmon and rice, or spoon them over toasted bread or baked potatoes for an easy, cozy lunch.
3-Ingredient Buttered Sweet Peas
Servings: 4
Ingredients
3 cups frozen sweet peas
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
Frozen peas, butter, and broth measured on a kitchen counter
Frozen peas, butter, and broth measured on a kitchen counter
Directions
In a medium saucepan, combine the frozen sweet peas and chicken broth. The liquid should just barely come up around the peas; it’s okay if some are peeking above the surface.
Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally, breaking up any frozen clumps as the peas thaw.
Peas thawing in broth with a spoon stirring gently
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