Smashed peas with mint butter

Smashed peas with mint butter is a vibrant side dish that marries the sweetness of peas with fragrant mint and creamy butter. This simple preparation elevates ordinary peas, making them an ideal accompaniment for various main courses.

24 Dec 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp fresh parsley
2/3 cup water
5 tbsp butter
1.25 tsp salt
4 package peas
1/3 cup spearmint

Smashed peas with mint butter is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the aromatic and fresh flavor of mint. This dish is simple yet sophisticated enough to accompany a variety of main courses, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Using fresh herbs and creamy butter, this recipe elevates standard peas into a delightful dish that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the frozen peas are fully thawed. Chop the fresh parsley and spearmint finely.

2. Cook the Peas:
- In a large pot, add the thawed peas and 2/3 cup of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the peas simmer for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender and warmed through.

3. Drain and Combine:
- Once the peas are tender, remove them from heat and drain any excess water.
- Return the peas to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

4. Smash the Peas:
- Using a potato masher or the back of a fork, gently smash the peas. Aim for a coarse texture; you want to retain some of the pea’s structure while mashing them.

5. Make the Mint Butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the 5 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add the finely chopped parsley, spearmint, and black pepper. Stir to combine well.
- Cook for just a minute, ensuring the herbs release their flavors into the butter without browning.

6. Combine and Season:
- Pour the mint butter mixture over the smashed peas.
- Add the 1.25 tsp of salt. Adjust according to taste if needed.
- Gently stir the peas to evenly coat them with the mint butter and herbs.

7. Final Touches:
- Give the dish one last gentle stir to make sure all ingredients are well combined and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.

8. Serve:
- Transfer the smashed peas with mint butter to a serving dish.
- Garnish with any remaining fresh parsley or spearmint if desired.

Smashed peas with mint butter is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that will bring a pop of color and fresh flavor to your table. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a side dish that's both elegant and comforting. This recipe not only highlights the natural sweetness of peas but also brings an aromatic twist with fresh mint and parsley, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.

Smashed peas with mint butter FAQ:

How long should I cook the peas?

Cook the peas for about 5 minutes over low heat after bringing them to a boil. They should be tender and warmed through at this point.

What can I substitute for spearmint?

If you don't have spearmint, you can use other fresh herbs like mint or even basil for a different flavor. However, the aromatic fresh taste will vary.

How do I store leftovers of smashed peas with mint butter?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peas instead of fresh. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best texture.

What pan size should I use for cooking the peas?

A medium-sized pot is suitable for cooking the peas, ensuring it’s large enough to hold all the peas and water without overflowing.

Tips:

- For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen peas instead of canned peas.

- Chill the mint before chopping it to retain its color and flavor better.

- Use unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the dish.

- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a food processor instead of mashing the peas by hand.

- Garnish with additional fresh mint and parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 6g
Fat 8g

Smashed peas with mint butter