18 Pea Recipes That Make The Most Of Spring Produce

Spring peas are the ingredient that makes everything taste brighter, fresher, and a little more joyful. Whether you love snap peas, snow peas, or classic English peas, their natural sweetness turns simple dishes into something special.

You will find recipes here that keep peas crisp and green, from quick weeknight bowls to elegant brunch bites. Let these ideas help you celebrate the very best of the season.

1. Pea And Mint Soup

This pea and mint soup tastes like pure spring in a bowl. Sweet peas blend into a silky, vibrant base, while a handful of mint keeps it lively and clean.

A squeeze of lemon brightens everything without overpowering the delicate flavor.

Keep it simple by sautéing onion in olive oil, then adding garlic, stock, and peas. Simmer briefly, blend until smooth, and finish with mint and a touch of cream if you like.

Season thoughtfully so the peas stay front and center.

Serve warm with crusty bread or chill it for a refreshing starter. Garnish with crème fraîche, extra mint, and cracked pepper.

It looks elegant, but comes together fast.

2. Spring Pea Risotto

Risotto is the cozy canvas that lets spring peas shine. Stir hot stock into Arborio rice, letting each ladleful absorb before adding the next.

Near the end, fold in peas so they stay sweet and tender, not mushy or dull.

Lemon zest and a squeeze of juice give the dish lift, while Parmesan adds savory depth. Finish with butter for gloss and silkiness.

Keep stirring gently, and you will feel the rice transform from chalky to creamy with just the right bite.

Serve immediately with extra cheese and herbs. The contrast of creamy rice and crisp peas feels luxurious yet light.

It is a perfect dinner with a salad.

3. Pasta With Peas, Lemon, And Parmesan

This pasta proves weeknight dinners can feel sunny and special. Toss hot noodles with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of pasta water to build a glossy sauce.

Fold in peas right at the end so their color pops and their sweetness stays bright.

Lemon zest and juice lift everything, while Parmesan melts into a salty, creamy coating. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.

It is simple, fast, and endlessly satisfying.

Use spaghetti, linguine, or short shapes that catch peas in every bite. Finish with parsley and extra cheese at the table.

You will want to twirl forkfuls until the pan is clean.

4. Snap Pea And Cucumber Salad

This salad is all about crunch and cool refreshment. Slice snap peas on the bias so they look pretty and release sweetness.

Toss with cucumber ribbons, radish, and lots of herbs for a garden-fresh mix that feels light yet satisfying.

A simple vinaigrette or sesame dressing ties it together without weighing it down. Think rice vinegar, lime, soy, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.

Add sesame seeds for nuttiness and a pinch of chili for sparkle.

Serve alongside grilled fish or tofu, or pile it over greens for lunch. It stays crisp if you dress it just before serving.

Every bite tastes like spring sunshine.

5. Pea And Ricotta Toast

These toasts turn a few ingredients into a brunch-level bite. Spread creamy whipped ricotta over grilled or toasted sourdough.

Spoon on smashed peas brightened with lemon zest, olive oil, and a touch of salt to highlight their natural sweetness.

A sprinkle of chili flakes adds warmth, while fresh herbs keep it lively. You can rub the toast with garlic for extra depth.

It is impressive but takes minutes to assemble, perfect for guests or a quick snack.

Finish with more olive oil and flaky salt. Add ribbons of mint or basil if you are feeling fancy.

Every crunchy, creamy bite delivers spring flavor without fuss.

6. Stir-Fried Snow Peas With Garlic

Snow peas love fast, hot cooking. Heat a wok until nearly smoking, then add oil and sliced garlic.

Toss in snow peas and stir-fry just until they turn glossy and bright, staying crisp with a hint of char at the edges.

A splash of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar makes a quick glaze. Finish with sesame oil for aroma.

The key is speed so the peas do not lose snap or color.

Serve alongside rice and your favorite protein. Add chili crisp if you crave heat.

It is a simple side that disappears fast and tastes restaurant-good at home.

7. Pea And Asparagus Frittata

This frittata brings brunch energy to any day. Whisk eggs with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper.

Fold in blanched peas and tender asparagus tips for color and crunch, then pour into a hot skillet and cook gently until just set.

Dollops of goat cheese melt into creamy pockets. Finish under the broiler until puffed and lightly browned.

Fresh herbs and lemon zest wake up every slice without making it heavy.

Serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad. Leftovers hold up for easy breakfasts.

It is spring on a plate, simple to make, and perfect for sharing.

8. English Pea And Burrata Salad

Sweet English peas and lush burrata make a dreamy pairing. Toss peas with lemony olive oil, salt, and pepper so they sparkle.

Tear burrata over the top and let the creamy centers mingle with the dressing.

Shower everything with mint, basil, and chives for garden fragrance. Add shaved fennel or thin radish for crunch if you like.

The flavors feel fancy while the prep stays blissfully easy.

Serve with warm bread to scoop up every creamy bite. A pinch of flaky salt at the end makes it sing.

This salad turns simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality plate at home.

9. Smashed Pea And Avocado Dip

This dip feels like guacamole met spring in a bowl. Mash ripe avocado with sweet peas for a creamy, slightly chunky texture.

Lemon or lime juice keeps it bright, while garlic and scallion bring gentle bite.

Olive oil smooths things out and makes it scoopable. Add mint or cilantro for freshness and a pinch of chili for heat.

Season generously so the sweetness of peas does not get lost.

Serve with pita chips, tortilla chips, or crunchy veggies. It packs nicely for picnics and potlucks.

Every scoop tastes vibrant, satisfying, and a little unexpected in the best way.

10. Pea Pesto

Pea pesto is a softer, sweeter twist on the classic. Blend peas with basil, Parmesan, lemon, garlic, and olive oil until smooth and spreadable.

The result is creamy and vivid, perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or spooning over grilled chicken.

Because peas are naturally sweet, you can balance with extra lemon and a little salt. Toasted nuts add body, but you can skip them for a lighter feel.

It keeps color nicely if you chill it quickly after blending.

Stir into hot pasta with a splash of water for silkiness. Smear on toast with ricotta and chili flakes.

It is versatile and instantly springy.

11. Creamy Pea And Potato Chowder

This chowder is comfort that still tastes bright. Sauté leeks and celery, add potatoes and stock, and simmer until tender.

Stir in peas near the end so they keep their color, then finish with cream or half and half for velvety richness.

Thyme and bay add gentle depth without crowding the peas. A splash of lemon lifts the finish.

The texture feels indulgent but the sweetness of peas keeps it from getting heavy.

Serve with buttered bread and lots of pepper. It is ideal on rainy spring evenings.

Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.

12. Spring Vegetable Grain Bowls

Grain bowls make spring meal prep easy. Start with farro, quinoa, or rice, then layer on roasted asparagus, carrots, and a big handful of peas.

Add crunchy radishes and herbs for freshness and color.

A simple lemony tahini or vinaigrette ties the textures together. You can add chicken, tofu, or soft-boiled eggs for protein.

The trick is balancing warm grains with crisp vegetables so each bite feels complete.

Pack these bowls for work lunches and you will actually look forward to eating them. They are endlessly customizable and very satisfying.

A finishing sprinkle of seeds adds crunch and nutrition.

13. Pea And Ham Pasta Salad

This pasta salad nods to classic deli flavors while staying light. Toss short pasta with peas, diced ham, and dill.

Use a tangy yogurt-mayo dressing with lemon and mustard so it coats without feeling heavy.

Celery and scallion add freshness and crunch. Season well and chill to let the flavors mingle.

The peas keep their sweetness and bring cheerful color to every scoop.

Pack it for picnics or make-ahead lunches. It pairs nicely with greens and sliced tomatoes.

You will find it disappears quickly at potlucks because it hits all the comforting notes.

14. Snap Pea Slaw With Sesame-Lime Dressing

Shaving snap peas into slivers makes a slaw that crackles with freshness. Combine them with carrots and cabbage for color and crunch.

A sesame-lime dressing brings zingy brightness that keeps you reaching for more.

Soy sauce, honey, and chili add balance and gentle heat. Toasted sesame seeds on top make it nutty and fragrant.

The whole bowl tastes clean and lively without feeling austere.

Serve as a side to grilled meats or tofu, or pile into tacos for texture. Dress lightly right before serving to preserve snap.

Leftovers hold up surprisingly well for lunch the next day.

15. Buttered Peas With Fresh Herbs

Sometimes the simplest approach is best. Warm good butter in a skillet, add peas, and cook just until tender and shiny.

Shower with chopped dill, chives, and parsley, plus a hint of lemon zest to wake everything up.

Season with salt and black pepper, maybe a pinch of sugar if your peas are very young. The goal is tenderness with a little pop, never mush.

Butter melts into a silky coating that highlights their sweetness.

Serve beside roast chicken, salmon, or seared tofu. It is the kind of side that quietly steals the spotlight.

You will want to spoon it over everything on your plate.

16. Pea And Goat Cheese Crostini

Crostini make entertaining effortless. Spread tangy whipped goat cheese onto crisp toasts, then top with lightly smashed peas.

Lemon zest and olive oil bring sparkle, while a pinch of pepper adds gentle heat.

The contrast of creamy, crunchy, and sweet makes these addictive. You can add a sliver of prosciutto or a few mint leaves for extra flair.

Everything can be prepped ahead and assembled right before serving.

Pass them as an appetizer or pair with salad for a light lunch. They look fancy with surprisingly little work.

Guests always ask for the recipe because each bite feels perfectly balanced.

17. Snow Pea And Shrimp Salad

This salad is quick, fresh, and full of protein. Sear shrimp until just pink and juicy.

Toss with blanched snow peas that still snap, then add citrus segments for sweet-tart brightness.

A ginger-lime dressing ties everything together with zing. Mint and cilantro keep it herbal and clean.

The textures are lively, and the flavors stay focused on spring produce.

Serve warm or chilled over greens or rice noodles. It makes a satisfying lunch that does not feel heavy.

Add avocado if you want extra creaminess without losing freshness.

18. Pea And Mushroom Orzo

Orzo cooks into a cozy, risotto-like base that loves peas. Sauté mushrooms until deeply browned and savory.

Stir in orzo, toast briefly, then add stock and simmer until tender and creamy.

Fold in peas at the end for color and sweetness. Parmesan and a knob of butter make it lush without feeling heavy.

A squeeze of lemon balances the mushrooms and keeps the dish lifted.

Serve straight from the skillet with extra herbs. It is weeknight-friendly but tastes like something special.

Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of water to loosen.