My sugar snap peas recipe doesn't hold back on flavor! Plus, it's ready in just five minutes, is vegan and gluten-free, and it makes a great side dish for any meal.
If you haven't purchased "stringless" pods, you need to "string" them. Remove the stem end with a knife or by snapping it with your fingers. Then pull away the membrane string running down the seam of each pod. Repeat with all the remaining sugar peas.This is important, as the string is tough, fibrous, and chewy. Sometimes the pods have strings down both sides, in which case you'll need to snap off both ends and peel away the strings.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the snap peas and sauté for between 3-5 minutes until tender and slightly crisp, stirring them often.When they’re ready, the pea pods should still be bright green but with a few browned spots and a tender-crisp texture.
Season with salt and pepper (to taste), and then serve the peas with lemon wedges to squeeze over them.
Storage Instructions
Make ahead: You can de-string and wash the peas several days in advance. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before storing them. Store: It's best to consume them immediately after cooking. However, you can save any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.Reheat the leftovers in a skillet, optionally with a small amount of oil or butter for the best texture. A microwave will work if you don't mind them being very soft.
Notes
Use the right pan: You'll need a large, wide pan, so the peas cook evenly.
Don't overcook them: Otherwise, the pods will fall apart and become bitter and/or chewy.
Remove the strings: Unless you specifically buy them stringless, removing this fibrous string is important, as otherwise, it's unpleasant to eat.
What else to add? Since this recipe is a perfect base, there is plenty of room for experimentation. Here are just a few of my favorite recommendations.
Butter: For a richer flavor, stir in some melted butter (unsalted or lightly salted- adjust added salt accordingly) when serving.
Garlic: One of my FAVORITE add-ins. Add 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic, some roasted garlic, or garlic powder in a pinch.
Sesame: Use 1-2 teaspoons of sesame oil or add in a tablespoon of lightly toasted sesame seeds.
Parmesan: Sprinkle the sauteed peas with freshly shredded parmesan.
Feta cheese: Great when combined with some fresh mint leaves and chili flakes.
Fresh herbs: Garnish the peas with finely chopped parsley, chives, dill, scallions, etc.
Seasonings: You can experiment with all sorts of seasonings added to taste: