Name: Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitute with butter for a richer taste.); 1 medium Shallot (Can be replaced with a small onion if unavailable.); 2 cloves Garlic (Use minced or pressed garlic for freshness.); 2 cups Sweet Peas (Fresh or frozen; delivers sweetness and vibrant color.); 1 cup Aged Parmesan (Use grated for convenience.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Adjust to suit preference.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the autumn leaves begin to fall, the kitchen transforms into a haven filled with warm, inviting aromas. One of my favorite moments is when the sizzling sound of sautéed shallots and garlic fills the air, promising something delicious is on the way. This Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish is just the ticket for those cozy holiday gatherings, boasting a burst of vibrant color and delightful flavors that are anything but ordinary.

Perfectly tender peas mingle with the richness of aged parmesan, creating an irresistible harmony that elevates any meal. It’s a fuss-free dish that not only delights the palate but also appeals to both seasoned chefs and those a bit wary of the oven. Whether you’re navigating the bustling holiday rush or simply seeking a quick vegetarian option for a weeknight dinner, these creamy parmesan peas will impress your guests and elevate your table. Let’s dive into the wonders of this easy, crowd-pleasing dish!

Why Are These Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish Special?

Simplicity in preparation makes this dish an ideal choice—even novice cooks will shine!
Vibrant Colors: The fresh, green peas create a stunning contrast on your holiday table.
Rich, Creamy Flavor: The blend of parmesan and sautéed garlic elevates the taste to gourmet levels.
Crowd-Pleasing: Guaranteed to impress guests, it pairs wonderfully with all your holiday favorites.
Versatility: Easily adaptable, you can swap in seasonal veggies for a fresh twist, making it perfect any time of year. For more ideas on how to enhance this recipe, check out our recipe variations for inspiration!

Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Ingredients

For the Sauté

Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; enhances flavor. Substitute with butter for a richer taste.
Shallot – Adds subtle sweetness and depth; can be replaced with a small onion if unavailable.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; ensures freshness by using minced or pressed garlic.

For the Peas

Sweet Peas – Fresh or frozen; delivers sweetness and vibrant color. Substitute with asparagus or green beans for variation.
Aged Parmesan – Imparts a nutty, sophisticated flavor; use grated for convenience.

For Seasoning

Sea Salt – Balances and enhances all flavors; adjust to suit preference.
Black Pepper – Adds warmth and mild spice; adjust to taste.

This Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish is here to add a burst of flavor and color to your holiday table!

How to Make Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish

Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. This will create a nice base for the shallots to caramelize and infuse your dish with flavor.
Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Add the diced shallots and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until they become tender and slightly browned, about 5 minutes. You’ll love the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen!
Cook Peas: Introduce the sweet peas to the skillet (no need to thaw if using frozen). Cook them for an additional 5-7 minutes until they are tender and a bright green color. Perfectly cooked peas should have a lovely pop in every bite!
Add Parmesan and Season: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste, incorporating all those rich and savory flavors together.
Plate and Serve: Transfer the creamy parmesan peas to a serving dish, showcasing their vibrant green color. This eye-catching dish is sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering!

Optional: For added zest, consider sprinkling a touch of lemon zest on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prep the sautéed shallots and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor. Additionally, you can wash and portion your sweet peas a day ahead, making it easy to throw everything together last minute. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the shallots and garlic in a skillet, add the peas (no need to thaw if frozen), cook for about 5-7 minutes, then stir in the parmesan and seasonings. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious side with minimal effort, allowing you to savor more time with family and friends!

What to Serve with Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish?

This delightful side dish deserves a place on your holiday table among comforting flavors and inviting aromas.

Herb-Roasted Turkey: The savory notes of turkey pair beautifully with the creamy peas, creating a comforting harmony.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes enhance the richness of the peas, making every bite a delight.
Honey-Baked Ham: The sweetness of honey-glazed ham complements the earthy flavors of the sautéed peas, creating a balanced plate.
Grilled Salmon: Tender salmon offers a fresh, light contrast to the creamy, rich peas, for a colorful and nutritious option.
Citrus-Infused Quinoa Salad: A bright, zesty salad will lighten the meal while perfectly balancing the richness of the peas.
Warm Bread Rolls: Fluffy, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy parmesan sauce—who could resist?
Traditional Stuffing: The herby, savory depth of stuffing creates a wonderful contrast with the sweetness of the peas, elevating your holiday spread.
Sparkling White Wine: A crisp, refreshing sparkling wine will cut through the creaminess, enhancing flavors and making every sip exquisite.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie adds a sweet, seasonal end to your meal, wonderfully rounding out the flavors on your plate.

Storage Tips for Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the dish retains its creamy texture and flavors.

Freezer: While freezing isn’t ideal for this dish due to potential texture changes, if necessary, freeze in a resealable bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming without making the peas mushy.

Presentation: If reheating, consider adding a bit more parmesan or a splash of cream to refresh the dish and enhance creaminess.

Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this dish with delightful variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or parsley while sautéing shallots for a fragrant twist. This aromatic addition will brighten the dish beautifully!
Cheesy Delight: Swap out parmesan for a blend of cheeses like gouda or feta for a new taste sensation. The different flavors will create an exciting spin on classic peas!
Bacon Boost: Incorporate crispy bacon bits to add a savory crunch. The smokiness of the bacon elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or almonds for an added crunch and flavor depth. They complement the creamy peas while adding a sophisticated texture.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a touch of heat. This variation brings a nice warmth that pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors.
Citrus Zing: Drizzle a bit of lemon juice or add zest before serving to brighten up the dish. The citrus notes will refresh your palate and uplift your meal.

With these variations, feel free to mix and match to make this Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish your own!

Expert Tips for Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas

Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh peas offer a sweeter taste, but frozen peas are just as delicious and save time—no need to thaw before cooking!
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the peas; overcooking can result in a mushy texture. Aim for tender yet vibrant green peas!
Enhance Flavor: For a flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the dish and complement the parmesan.
Make It Creamier: If you desire an even creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche along with the parmesan.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Gently reheat on low heat to maintain the dish’s quality.

Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best peas for this dish?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, opt for vibrant green sweet peas—either fresh or frozen work beautifully. If you’re using fresh peas, they should be plump and shiny, while frozen peas should not have any frost or ice crystals, indicating they’ve been kept at a proper temperature. If options are limited, frozen can be just as good, allowing you to save time without sacrificing flavor!

How long can I store leftovers of the Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish?
You can store this delightful dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to dig in again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy texture without turning the peas mushy.

Can I freeze the Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish?
Very! While freezing isn’t ideal as it may change the texture of the peas, you can do it if needed. Transfer the cooled peas into a resealable freezer bag, pressing out any air, and freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a bit more parmesan or cream to restore creaminess.

What should I do if the peas become mushy during cooking?
The more the merrier! To avoid mushiness, ensure that you don’t overcook the peas. They should only take about 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat to get tender and bright green. If you notice dark spots developing or they start turning yellow, that’s a sign they’re overcooked. Always taste as you go; this will help you achieve the perfect texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Easy Creamy Parmesan Peas Side Dish is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free by simply ensuring your cheese is free of gluten additives. For lactose-intolerant guests, consider using lactose-free parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Always check for allergies, particularly with garlic and parmesan, as some may have sensitivities.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Very! If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the sautéed shallots and garlic a day before and store them in the fridge. Then, on serving day, just add the peas, parmesan, and finish cooking. This approach saves time and allows flavors to deepen, making your holiday preparation a breeze!