Spicy Garlic Butter Snow Peas

Name: Spicy Garlic Butter Snow Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh snow peas; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

I absolutely love the vibrant crunch of snow peas, and when they are tossed in spicy garlic butter, they transform into a truly delectable side dish. This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh snow peas with the savory bite of garlic and a hint of chili heat. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a fantastic accompaniment to almost any meal. Plus, the bright green color of the peas adds a beautiful pop to your plate, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:06:26.878Z

When I first made Spicy Garlic Butter Snow Peas, I was amazed at how something so simple could burst with flavor. The blend of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce, while the touch of red pepper flakes brings just the right amount of heat. After experimenting with the timing, I found that cooking the peas for just a few minutes enhances their natural sweetness while keeping them tender-crisp.

This dish became a family favorite overnight! I often prepare it for casual dinners, but it also impresses guests at more formal gatherings. One tip I’d recommend is to adjust the spice level according to your preference—the more you use, the spicier it gets, so feel free to make it your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to make and bursting with flavor
Perfect balance of spicy and buttery goodness
Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to any meal

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh snow peas is critical for achieving that delightful crunch and sweetness that this dish is known for. Frozen snow peas can be a substitute in a pinch, but they tend to lose their vibrant color and crisp texture once cooked. If you can, seek out bright green, firm, and glossy peas at your local market. This ensures that not only the flavor is at its peak, but also the visual appeal when served.

Another essential ingredient is the garlic. When sautéed until fragrant, garlic releases its aromatic oils, which infuse the butter and subsequently the snow peas with a rich, savory flavor profile. Be cautious not to overcook the garlic; just a minute in the skillet is sufficient. If it browns too much, it will turn bitter, affecting the overall taste of the dish.

Sautéing Techniques for Perfect Texture

The technique for sautéing snow peas is crucial for maintaining their freshness and crunch. You’ll want to cook them only until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. This typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat. If you see them losing their bright color or starting to wilt too much, it’s a sign to remove them from the heat to avoid a mushy texture.

To keep the dish visually striking and to enhance the flavors, toss the snow peas frequently in the garlic butter. This ensures that each pea is coated evenly and benefits from the spicy and buttery mixture. A good non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup while also achieving that glossy finish on the peas.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to elevate your snow peas!

Ingredients

1 pound fresh snow peas
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish

These ingredients will come together for a delightful finish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spicy Garlic Butter Snow Peas.

Prepare the Snow Peas

Rinse the snow peas under cold water and trim the ends. Pat them dry and set aside.

Melt the Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Sauté the Snow Peas

Add the snow peas to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

Season & Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your dish with a smile!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try experimenting with different herbs like thyme or basil. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil can give it an Asian twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, it's best to prepare it as fresh as possible. However, if you want to save some for later, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve their texture. Microwaving is an option, but it may result in a softer texture, so be cautious.

For meal prep, consider cooking the snow peas but leave off the butter sauce, seasoning, and lemon juice until just before serving. This way, you can maintain maximum freshness and flavor when you're ready to enjoy them as a vibrant contrast in a lunch bowl or as part of a larger dinner.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These spicy garlic butter snow peas pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the smoky flavors. For a vegetarian option, they can be a fresh addition to stir-fries or tossed in grain salads for added crunch and color. You can also serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

If you like to experiment, feel free to modify the chili heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a fresh chili pepper into the mix. Alternatively, create a different flavor profile by incorporating a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil when tossing the peas, which can bring an Asian twist to this already delightful side dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen snow peas?

Yes, but fresh ones will have a better texture and flavor.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

You can increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian as long as you use vegetarian-friendly butter.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prep the snow peas in advance and sauté them just before serving.