Name: Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas: A Simple Joy in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sweet Green Peas (Fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For richness); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Adjust to taste); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/2 lemon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed)

The rich aroma of smoked paprika wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling market in southern Spain. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite quick and healthy side dish – Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas. This recipe not only comes together in minutes, but it also transforms simple peas into a vibrant, mouthwatering companion perfect for any meal. The creamy buttery texture, paired with the smoky depth of paprika, creates a delightful balance that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Plus, it’s vegetarian and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their dinner plate without the fuss. Curious to discover how a handful of ingredients can create such a culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas So Special?

Quick, Effortless Preparation: Within minutes, you’ll have a stunning side dish that impresses and satisfies.

Bursting with Flavor: The smoky paprika elevates the natural sweetness of the peas, creating a vibrant dish that packs a punch.

Healthy and Wholesome: With basic ingredients, this vegetarian and gluten-free recipe is guilt-free and nutritious.

Versatile Pairing: Pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian main.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these peas shine on any table.

Indulge in this quick recipe for Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas and transform your meals into something unforgettable!

Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas Ingredients

For the Peas
• Sweet Green Peas – Choose fresh for the best flavor or frozen for quick convenience.
• Unsalted Butter – The creamy base that brings richness; unsalted allows you to season as preferred.

For the Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a delightful smoky dimension; adjust to your taste for more intensity.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors; feel free to add more to suit your palate.

For the Finish
• Lemon Juice (½ lemon) – Introduces a refreshing zing to balance the richness of the butter.

Dive into the vibrant world of Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas and discover how simple ingredients can create a spectacular side dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas

Step 1: Prepare the Peas
Start by shelling fresh sweet green peas or, for convenience, slightly thaw frozen peas. If using fresh peas, expect to see their bright green color and plumpness as you shell them. This preparation should take about 10 minutes, yielding a delightful base for your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and heat over medium heat until it begins to bubble. Keep an eye on the butter, ensuring it melts smoothly without browning, which will take about 2-3 minutes. The buttery aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere as we build on this rich foundation.

Step 3: Infuse with Paprika
Once the butter is bubbling, stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the smoky flavor to infuse the butter beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that inviting aroma wafting throughout your kitchen, enhancing the overall depth of your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas.

Step 4: Cook the Peas
Add the prepared peas to the bubbly paprika-infused butter, stirring to coat them evenly. Cook for about 3 minutes, until the peas turn a vibrant bright green and become tender yet still slightly firm. This quick cooking process should be gentle, allowing the peas to maintain their delicious sweetness while soaking in the flavors.

Step 5: Season and Finish
Once the peas are cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pan, stirring everything together for an additional minute. The zesty lemon will brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Finally, transfer your beautifully cooked Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas to a serving bowl. Whether enjoyed warm or left to cool slightly for a chilled snack, this colorful dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or even as a stand-alone treat. Share and savor every bite of this quick and delightful creation!

What to Serve with Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas

The perfect side dish deserves equally delightful companions to create a harmonious meal that tantalizes your taste buds.

Grilled Chicken: The zesty, smoky flavors of grilled chicken enhance the richness of the peas, making for a balanced plate. The succulent juices of the chicken interlace beautifully with the buttery texture, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor.
Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender peas. Their earthy goodness creates a satisfying dynamic that elevates your dining experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette brings freshness to the table. It’s a bright juxtaposition to the creamy peas, adding vibrant colors and textures.
Seared Salmon: A flaky, buttery salmon fillet pairs elegantly with the smoked paprika, complementing its depth while contributing healthy fats. The dish feels luxurious yet remains simple—a true crowd-pleaser.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors. This crunchy side serves as a wonderful contrast, and its aroma is sure to entice!
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet brings a bright zingle that echoes the citrus note used in the peas. It’s a lovely palate cleanser that ties the meal together beautifully.

Let these pairings inspire creativity in your kitchen, crafting a meal that enchants everyone at your table!

Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas Variations

Discover the joy of customizing your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter or olive oil for a creamy, vegan-friendly option.
Use extra virgin olive oil to infuse even more flavor, while keeping it heart-healthy.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill or thyme for a fragrant herbal touch.
These herbs complement the smokiness beautifully, creating a fresh and aromatic dish.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level.
This will create a tantalizing contrast to the sweet peas, perfect for those who love a little spice.
Citrus Burst: Enhance the lemon juice with a splash of lime or orange for an exciting, fruity twist.
These citrus notes invigorate the dish, marrying well with the smokiness of the paprika.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture and richness.
The crunch adds a delicious contrast to the tender peas, making every bite a delightful experience.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or Parmesan for a salty, creamy element.
This addition can take your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas to a whole new level of indulgence.
Seasonal Variations: Mix in fresh corn or diced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
These seasonal vegetables add even more variety and nutrition to this dish, making it versatile year-round.

Feel free to experiment and make these Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas uniquely yours! Explore the delightful spectrum of flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your favorite adaptations.

Make Ahead Options

These Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the peas by shelling fresh ones or thawing frozen ones up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can melt the butter and infuse it with smoked paprika ahead of time, keeping it tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the butter mixture until bubbling, add the peas, and finish with seasonings and lemon juice. This way, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy cooking without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas

• Fresh is Best: Use fresh peas when possible for a sweeter flavor and delightful pop. If using frozen, make sure they are just thawed to retain texture.

• Control the Heat: When melting butter, keep the heat on medium. Too high, and the butter may brown, which can affect the taste of your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas.

• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! After adding salt and pepper, you can always adjust more based on your preference for seasoning.

• Add a Twist: Experiment with your favorite herbs, like dill or thyme, to enhance the dish further. They pair beautifully with the smoked paprika.

• Quick Reheat: If you have leftovers, reheat them in a pan briefly to maintain texture and flavor; avoid the microwave for the best results.

Remember, a little care in preparation can elevate your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas into a truly special side dish!

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the peas in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet with a pat of butter or olive oil to restore the creamy texture of your Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the peas, which can turn them mushy. Enjoy your vibrant dish fresh!

Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas Recipe FAQs

What type of peas should I use for Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, fresh sweet green peas are ideal, bringing a lovely sweetness to the dish. However, thawed frozen peas work just as well for a quick option – just ensure they are slightly defrosted before cooking for the best texture.

How should I store leftovers of Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To revive their delicious flavors, reheat them gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of butter or a dash of olive oil to keep them creamy and delightful.

Can I freeze Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas?
Certainly! To freeze, place your cooked peas in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop to bring back their vibrant taste and texture.

What if my peas turn mushy during cooking?
Oh no! To avoid mushy peas, be mindful of cooking time – keep it around 3 minutes until they are bright green and tender but still firm. If you find they’re mushy, don’t worry! You could blend them into a dip or mix into a creamy soup for a different delicious take!

Are Smoked Paprika Buttered Peas suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Very much so! This recipe is not only gluten-free but also vegetarian. Just check that your ingredients, particularly the butter and smoked paprika, are gluten-free, and you’ll have a safe and scrumptious dish to enjoy!

Can pets eat peas?
Yes, peas are safe for dogs and even some other pets in moderation. Just ensure they’re prepared without seasoning, butter, or spices. A small amount of plain cooked pea can be a delightful treat for your furry friends!