Green peas might seem like a simple side dish, but when treated right, they can become the star of your table. Naturally sweet, vibrantly green, and packed with nutrients like fiber and protein, peas are incredibly versatile. Whether tossed in a salad, puréed into a silky spread, or stirred into a buttery skillet with herbs, green peas offer a fresh, bright bite that pairs beautifully with everything from roast chicken to grilled fish. These 16 green pea side dish recipes go well beyond basic, offering creative, colorful ways to enjoy this underrated ingredient.
1. Buttered Peas with Mint
The simplest things are often the best. These classic buttered peas are elevated with fresh mint, which adds a fragrant freshness that cuts through the richness. Perfect with lamb or roasted spring vegetables.
Get the recipe: Buttered Peas with Mint
2. Creamed Peas
Old-fashioned comfort at its finest — peas simmered gently in a creamy, buttery sauce. It’s velvety, rich, and satisfying, especially when paired with roasted turkey, ham, or mashed potatoes. Get the recipe: Creamed Peas
3. Green Pea and Feta Salad
This chilled salad combines sweet peas with tangy feta cheese, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing, zesty side that works beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread.
Get the recipe: Green Pea and Feta Salad
4. Pea and Mint Pesto
Blended with Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh mint, this unique pesto is a bright and herbaceous spread for crostini, pasta, or grilled chicken. It brings vibrant green color and bold flavor to any dish.
Get the recipe: Pea and Mint Pesto
5. Sautéed Peas with Shallots
A quick, elegant side where peas are lightly sautéed in olive oil or butter with finely sliced shallots. The shallots add subtle sweetness and a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft peas.
Get the recipe: Sautéed Peas with Shallots
6. Lemon-Parmesan Peas
A splash of lemon juice and a dusting of grated Parmesan turn a simple bowl of peas into a bright, savory delight. This recipe is quick, easy, and adds flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of peas.
Get the recipe: Lemon-Parmesan Peas
7. Green Pea Risotto
Creamy and luxurious, this risotto is stirred with green peas and fresh herbs for a springtime twist. The peas keep their shape and add pops of color and sweetness to every spoonful. Get the recipe: Green Pea Risotto
8. Sweet Pea and Ricotta Crostini
Perfect as a starter or side, these toasts feature a layer of creamy ricotta topped with crushed green peas, lemon zest, and black pepper. Elegant and easy to prepare, they’re a hit at any gathering. Get the recipe: Sweet Pea and Ricotta Crostini
9. Pea and Potato Salad
A refreshing take on a classic, this dish combines baby potatoes with green peas, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s light and herby, ideal for potlucks and warm-weather barbecues. Get the recipe: Pea and Potato Salad
10. Green Pea Hummus
A fresh spin on traditional hummus, this version blends peas with tahini, lemon, garlic, and a touch of cumin. The result is a bright green dip that’s perfect with pita chips or veggie sticks. Get the recipe: Green Pea Hummus
11. Stir-Fried Peas with Garlic and Soy
Inspired by Asian cuisine, this quick stir-fry adds garlic and soy sauce to create an umami-rich pea dish that’s perfect alongside rice, dumplings, or grilled meats. Get the recipe: Stir-Fried Peas with Garlic and Soy
12. Warm Peas with Pancetta
Crispy pancetta or bacon crumbles bring a salty, savory kick to gently warmed peas. The contrast of textures — crunchy pork and soft peas — is incredibly satisfying and makes this side dish a crowd-pleaser. Get the recipe: Warm Peas with Pancetta
13. Peas and Pearl Onions
A timeless pairing, this dish balances the sweetness of peas with tender pearl onions in a light butter glaze. It’s often served during holiday dinners and pairs wonderfully with roasts. Get the recipe: Peas and Pearl Onions
14. Spring Pea and Asparagus Sauté
Two green powerhouses come together in this sautéed medley, flavored with lemon and thyme. It’s a seasonal favorite that’s packed with vitamins and makes any plate pop with color and freshness.
Get the recipe: Spring Pea and Asparagus Sauté
15. Mashed Peas with Olive Oil and Lemon
A rustic and flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish blends peas into a coarse purée with olive oil, lemon, and sea salt. It’s fresh, bright, and surprisingly filling.
Get the recipe: Mashed Peas with Olive Oil and Lemon
16. Chilled Green Pea Soup
A silky, blended soup served cold, ideal for warm spring or summer lunches. The peas are the star here, bringing natural sweetness and a gorgeous green hue. Serve with crème fraîche or fresh herbs.
Get the recipe: Chilled Green Pea Soup
Green peas are far more than a basic side dish — they’re little bursts of sweetness that can bring balance, color, and a hint of springtime to any meal. From comforting classics to modern, zesty twists, these 16 green pea dishes prove that with a little creativity, the humble pea can shine in every season. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or hosting a summer garden party, one of these recipes is sure to delight your guests and brighten your plate.
