Peas Vegetarian Recipe Ideas for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 2, 2025

Peas are one of the most versatile and nutritious vegetables you can add to your vegetarian meals. Their naturally sweet flavor and vibrant green color make them an excellent addition to a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and stir-fries.

Whether you use fresh, frozen, or even dried peas, they bring a delightful texture and a boost of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins to your plate. For those looking to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal, incorporating peas is a simple yet impactful choice.

Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and easy peas vegetarian recipe that highlights the freshness and subtle sweetness of peas while keeping your meal light and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish to impress your guests.

Plus, it’s completely vegetarian, making it suitable for anyone looking to eat more plant-based foods without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This peas vegetarian recipe is a celebration of simplicity and nutrition. It’s packed with fresh ingredients that complement the peas perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

One of the best parts is how quick and easy it is to prepare — no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring meatless meals, this dish offers:

  • Fresh, vibrant flavors that highlight the natural sweetness of peas
  • Protein and fiber-rich content for a filling and healthy meal
  • A light yet hearty texture that pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread

Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. If you want to explore more exciting vegetarian recipes, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan alternative

Equipment

  • Medium-sized saucepan
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (if using fresh peas)
  • Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the peas: If you’re using fresh peas, rinse and shell them. For frozen peas, no preparation is needed besides defrosting if preferred.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add garlic and carrot: Stir in the minced garlic and diced carrot. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the carrot to soften slightly.
  4. Cook the peas: Add the peas to the pan along with the ground cumin. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
  5. Season and add herbs: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh mint leaves and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  6. Optional topping: If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or a vegan alternative over the dish for added creaminess and flavor.
  7. Serve warm: Transfer to a serving bowl or plate and enjoy immediately, paired with your favorite grain or bread.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili flakes when you sauté the onions.”

Here are a few ways to customize this recipe:

  • Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut cream before serving for a rich texture.
  • Add more veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
  • Make it nutty: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top for a delightful crunch.
  • Herb swaps: If you don’t have mint, fresh basil or parsley works beautifully, too.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 150 kcal
Protein 8 g
Carbohydrates 22 g
Dietary Fiber 7 g
Fat 4 g
Vitamin C 35% of Daily Value
Iron 10% of Daily Value

Serving Suggestions

This peas vegetarian dish pairs wonderfully with simple grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside warm flatbreads or crusty artisan bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

You can also serve it as a side with other vegetarian mains like stuffed peppers or vegetable lasagna. For a lighter option, add it to a fresh salad bowl with roasted veggies and nuts for a complete, balanced meal.

To explore more delicious vegetarian dishes perfect for any occasion, try our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners and Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore.

Conclusion

Incorporating peas into your vegetarian meals not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture. This simple peas vegetarian recipe is both approachable for beginners and satisfying for experienced home cooks.

It highlights the natural sweetness and vibrancy of peas while allowing room for creative variations based on your preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for quick, healthy, and tasty meals. Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs, spices, and additional vegetables to make it uniquely yours.

For more inspiration on plant-based cooking, explore our other recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Spiced Peas Stir-Fry

Description: A quick and flavorful vegetarian dish featuring fresh peas sautéed with aromatic spices. Perfect as a side or light main course.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until golden.
  4. Stir in chopped tomato and cook until soft.
  5. Add turmeric, chili powder, and salt; mix well.
  6. Add peas and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 20 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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