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This Green Peas with Olive Oil and Herbs dish is made with simple ingredients, naturaly sweet and vibrant —fresh peas simmered gently with onions, garlic, and lemon, then finished with a generous handful of fresh dill and mint. It’s humble and full of bright, herbal flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, building a mezze platter, or looking for a light side, this dish brings freshness and comfort with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Green Peas with Olive Oil Recipe

1. It’s Fresh and Light
The vibrant green peas, lemon juice, and fresh herbs create a dish that tastes like spring or summer in a bowl. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals or whenever you want something refreshing and easy on the stomach.

2. It’s Simple Yet Elegant
This dish takes just a few everyday ingredients and transforms them into something that feels a little special. A few fresh herbs, some aromatic garlic, and a splash of good olive oil are all it takes.

3. It’s Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free
No substitutions needed—this Green Peas with Olive Oil dish is naturally plant-based and free from gluten, making it ideal for anyone with dietary restrictions or those simply looking to eat more vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into this beautiful dish:

4 tbsp olive oil – Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
1 small white onion – Finely chopped; this forms the aromatic base.
1 1/2 cups green peas – Fresh or frozen both work well.
2 spring onions – Roughly chopped; they add a mild sharpness.
4 garlic cloves – Roughly chopped; the garlic infuses the oil with flavor.
Juice of 1/2 lemon + 3 lemon slices – Brightens and balances the dish.
1/4 cup water – Helps cook the peas gently without browning.
Salt, to taste – Don’t be shy—salt brings out the natural sweetness of the peas.
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped – Both herbs add a lovely final flourish.

Serving Suggestions for Green Peas with Olive Oil

This Green Peas with Olive Oil dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:

As Part of a Mezze Spread
Pair it with hummus, olives, roasted red peppers, grilled flatbreads, and a tangy yogurt dip for a Mediterranean-inspired platter.
With Grains
Serve over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or bulgur for a light and balanced lunch.
Tucked into a Wrap
Stuff it into pita or a wrap with some hummus and greens for a satisfying sandwich.
Alongside Grilled Foods
It pairs beautifully with grilled tofu, or even a simple vegetable skewer.
On Toast
Mash it slightly and spoon it over crusty sourdough toast. Top with a few chili flakes or an extra squeeze of lemon.

Tips for Best Results

Use high-quality olive oil – Since olive oil is a key player in this dish, choose one with good flavor. Extra virgin, cold-pressed oils work best.
Fresh herbs make a difference – Don’t substitute dried dill or mint; the freshness is crucial here.
Don’t overcook the peas – You want them tender but still vibrant. Overcooking can dull the flavor and color.
Cool before serving – This dish tastes better after it sits for a bit. The flavors meld and the herbs become more pronounced.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prep or make-ahead occasions:

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor improves as it sits.
Freezer: Not recommended, as peas and fresh herbs tend to lose their texture and brightness after freezing and thawing.
Serving from cold: Bring it out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) : Green Peas with Olive Oil

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Frozen peas work beautifully in this recipe and are often more convenient. Just rinse them under warm water before adding to the pan so they defrost slightly and cook evenly.

What kind of onion should I use?

White onion is ideal for its mild sweetness, but you can also use yellow onion or even a shallot for a more delicate flavor. Red onion could work in a pinch but will give a slightly sharper taste.

Can I skip the lemon slices?

The lemon slices add a beautiful depth of citrus flavor and a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the peas. If you don’t have lemon slices, add a bit more juice and a few strips of zest.

How do I make this dish oil-free?

While olive oil adds richness and mouthfeel, you can make an oil-free version by sautéing the onions in a splash of water or vegetable broth. The final dish will be lighter but still flavorful.

Can I use other herbs besides dill and mint?

You can! Dill and mint give a distinctly Mediterranean flavor, but you could also try parsley, cilantro, or tarragon for a different twist. Just be sure to use fresh herbs, not dried.

Is this dish served hot or cold?

It’s traditionally served cool or at room temperature, which makes it perfect for picnics, potlucks, and warm-weather meals. Letting it cool also enhances the flavors, especially from the lemon and herbs.

How can I make it more filling?

You can serve with cooked quinoa, couscous, or barley for a grain-based dish, or mix in beans or lentils for more protein. It also pairs well with bread or flatbread on the side.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This dish scales easily. Just use a larger pan and make sure not to overcrowd it, so the peas cook evenly. You may need to add a little more water and adjust seasoning to taste.

Check out more recipes:

Loaded Roasted Sweet Potato

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Quinoa and White Bean salad

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