Mashed Peas (Paleo, Whole30, vegan)

mushy peas in a white bowl on a wooden table next to a blue striped towel

5 from 5 votes

Mashed Peas are a quick, easy and colorful side dish that go with almost everything! Once you learn how to make them, you'll be whipping them up as part of your regular weeknight dinner routine.

Prep Time5

Cook Time3

Bring water to a boil10

Total Time18

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 126kcal

Author: Don Baiocchi

Ingredients

big pinch of fine sea salt, plus ¾ teaspoon and more if necessary, divided
1 (16 oz.) bag frozen peas (unthawed)
2 tablespoons butter, ghee or your preferred fat, plus more if necessary
freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add a big pinch of salt and let the water return to a boil (some of the salt might not dissolve, which is fine).
Add the frozen peas and let them cook for 3 minutes, starting the time immediately after you add them (don't wait for the water to return to a boil). Stir them occasionally.
After 3 minutes, drain the peas and return them to the saucepan (they don't have to be perfectly drained or dry).
If mashing by hand, mash the peas until they start to get chunky. Add the 2 tablespoons butter, ¾ teaspoon of salt and some freshly ground pepper. Keep mashing until they reach your desired consistency. Taste and see if you want to add more butter, salt or pepper.
If using a food processor or blender, add the peas straight to the bowl/blender jar from the colander. Add the butter, ¾ teaspoon salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Blend until they reach your desired consistency. Taste and see if you want to add more butter, salt or pepper.
Serve warm.

Notes

Make ahead

The peas can be chilled in the fridge for up to 5 days.

They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, quickly warm them in the microwave or in a saucepan over a low heat, stirring frequently.

Substitutions and variations

These mashed peas are great on their own but you can also add other ingredients to spice them up:

lemon zest
fresh herbs like mint, basil, parsley or tarragon
a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to make them spicy
A dash of coconut aminos or fish sauce (you'll need less salt as those condiments are salty)
A dash of garlic powder (or cook minced fresh garlic in a bit of butter until golden and stir into the mashed peas)

Nutrition