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Garlic Parmesan Sugar Snap Peas: A Quick & Delicious Recipe

Quick and easy Garlic Parmesan Sugar Snap Peas, sautéed to tender-crisp perfection with garlic, butter, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A simple side dish that’s bursting with flavor!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh sugar snap peas, ends trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sugar Snap Peas: Rinse sugar snap peas under cold water. Trim the stem end of each pea and gently pull off any stringy fibers. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  3. Sauté Sugar Snap Peas: Add the trimmed and dried sugar snap peas to the skillet. Toss to coat with the garlic-infused oil. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until bright green and tender-crisp.
  4. Add Butter and Season: Stir in the butter until melted and coating the peas. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove from heat. Add grated Parmesan cheese and toss to combine. The cheese will melt slightly.
  6. Add Lemon Juice (Optional): If using, add lemon juice and toss.
  7. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the sugar snap peas; they should be tender-crisp.
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Adjust seasonings to your taste.
  • For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus.
  • Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
  • Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme at the end.
  • Roast the sugar snap peas at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes for a different cooking method.
  • Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 4 cloves of fresh garlic if needed.
  • Add lemon zest for an extra burst of lemon flavor.