If you’re craving a vibrant side that bursts with flavor and color, the Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe is your new go-to. These tender peas get a smoky, buttery boost that transforms a simple vegetable into a star of the plate. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with an easy-yet-fancy dish, this recipe brings out the best in humble peas with a smoky twist you won’t forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe is a breeze. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors, making this dish both simple and exceptional.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas: The heart of the dish, fresh peas offer sweetness while frozen peas provide convenience without sacrifice.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps carry the smoky flavor evenly through the peas.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The magic ingredient that gives the dish its warm, smoky aroma and a subtle depth.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the peas.
- Pepper to taste: Brings a touch of heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped fine (optional): Adds a bright, herbaceous note and fresh color for garnishing.
How to Make Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Peas
Start by rinsing your fresh peas thoroughly to get rid of any dirt or impurities. If you’re using frozen peas, just measure them out; no thawing needed, which saves time. This step ensures your peas taste fresh and vibrant in every bite.
Step 2: Infuse Butter with Smoked Paprika
Next, melt the butter gently over medium heat, then stir in the smoked paprika. Cook this combination just until the paprika becomes fragrant, usually around a minute. This step is key because it unlocks the smoky flavor that makes this recipe stand out.
Step 3: Cook and Season the Peas
Add your peas to the smoky butter mixture, then season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat the peas evenly without mashing them. Cooking the peas in this way lets them soak up all that buttery, smoky goodness while maintaining their tender bite.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top if you like. This not only adds a fresh pop of green but also a mild herbal brightness that complements the smoky peas perfectly. Serve immediately to enjoy their warm, buttery flavor at its best.
How to Serve Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish that adds freshness and color. You could also experiment with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few toasted pine nuts for added texture and an extra flavor layer.
Side Dishes
These smoky peas pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple baked fish. They also make a fantastic complement to creamy mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread for soaking up the buttery juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the smoked paprika peas in a rustic bowl garnished with parsley for a casual vibe. For a party, spoon them into mini ramekins or serve atop crostini with a light drizzle of olive oil to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making them a great quick side to reheat later.
Freezing
While peas freeze well, this particular recipe is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you do freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container and try to use within one month to avoid loss of smokiness and buttery richness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the peas gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small pat of butter if needed to revive the creamy texture. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the peas mushy and less flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use dried peas instead of fresh or frozen?
Dried peas require soaking and longer cooking times, so they are not ideal for this recipe. Fresh or frozen peas will give you the best texture and quick cooking experience for the Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe.
Is smoked paprika very spicy?
Smoked paprika has a mild heat level with a distinctive smoky flavor, so it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. It adds warmth without overpowering the sweetness of the peas.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or olive oil to keep it vegan while preserving the rich mouthfeel and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries! You can use other fresh herbs like cilantro or chives, or even a little finely grated lemon zest to brighten the dish.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure to cook the peas in a larger pan to ensure even cooking and seasoning. Scaling up won’t affect the essential deliciousness of this Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe is proof that simple ingredients, treated with care and a little smoky flair, can become an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re starting out in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, these peas bring warmth, color, and comfort to any meal. Give them a try, and I promise they’ll become a beloved staple on your table.
Print
Smoked Paprika Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Smoked Paprika Peas recipe is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring fresh or frozen peas cooked in buttery smoked paprika. The smoky depth of paprika combined with tender peas makes a vibrant and simple complement to any meal, finished with optional fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas, rinsed if fresh
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped fine (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Peas: Rinse the fresh peas thoroughly under cold water if using fresh peas, or measure out frozen peas. Set them aside ready for cooking.
- Melt Butter and Infuse Paprika: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the smoked paprika and cook it gently in the butter until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, to release its smoky aroma.
- Cook Peas and Season: Add the peas to the skillet, stir gently to coat them evenly with the paprika butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until peas are tender but still vibrant green.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the peas if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using fresh peas will provide a sweeter and fresher flavor, but frozen peas work perfectly and are convenient.
- Adjust the smoked paprika amount to control the smokiness level according to your preference.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- These peas pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a vibrant addition to vegetarian meals.
