Learn how to cook any type of peas in the microwave in just minutes! This recipe works great with both fresh and frozen peas and is something you will want to have in your back pocket. 

This method is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to cook peas. Making steamed peas in the microwave is super convenient and will make a great addition to any Buddha Bowl, a snacking veggie, and even to have on hand when it’s time to hide veggies in mac and cheese (we’ve all done it). 

Why This Microwave Steamed Peas Recipe Works 

• No need to pull out a pot and boil your peas. Keep the mess at bay with this simple method. Also keep the smell of peas out of your house. 
• This is energy efficient and the quick cooking time allows you to prepare other things to go with our peas (like that mac and cheese of course) 

• Our recipe testers say,
  • “Quick method, but my favorite part is that my house doesn’t smell like peas anymore! “
  • “Easy and delicious. I topped mine with some butter and salt and ate the whole bowl. Only way I will make peas from now on.” 

Ingredients For Steamed Peas in the Microwave  

• Fresh or frozen peas 
• Water 
• Butter, salt, and pepper 

How to Steam Peas in the Microwave 

1. Add peas and water to a microwave safe bowl. 
2. Cover with a microwave safe lid or a plate and microwave on high for 4 minutes for fresh peas, and 1-2 minutes for frozen peas. 
3. Remove from the microwave and stir and microwave for another minute and then drain. 
4. Transfer peas to a serving dish and top with butter, salt, and pepper. 

English, Snap, and Snow Peas

English Peas. The most common type of pea there is, is also known as a garden pea. The pea pod can’t be digested and they must be shelled to consume. Since they require shelling, we suggest buying shelled peas from the grocery store to cut down on time. 

Sugar Snap Peas. These look the most similar to english peas, but the pod is shaped differently. They are a hybrid of snow peas and a variety of garden peas. These don’t need to be shelled and are cooked with their pods, just like snow peas, but are thick and crunchy. 

Snow Peas. These are also known as Chinese Peas because they are mostly used in Chinese cuisines. They are easily recognizable and have an almost flat shell with no real pea shape inside. The pods are edible and are specifically grown for their pods vs. the seeds inside of them. 

Grocery Tip! 

When you are looking to buy fresh peas at the grocery store, keep in mind that they should be firm to the touch. Smaller peas tend to be much sweeter, so we suggest looking out for medium sized firm peas. Too large is not the best for steaming. 

How can I Enjoy my Microwave Cooked Bok Choy? 

Mac and Cheese! We will never not put peas in our mac and cheese. Even if you don’t love the taste of peas, you will never even taste it in this incredibly cheesy and delicious Mac and Cheese with Peas recipe. Steam your peas in the microwave first and then add them to the mac and cheese at the end. They will be sweet and coated in cheese and you will be so happy! 

Salads. This Green Pea Salad with Creamy Dressing is not just totally beautiful, but also incredibly delicious. This salad is mixed together with bell peppers, red onions, carrots, and celery, and topped with a ranch-like dressing that is creamy and dreamy. 

Creamed Peas! Use our microwave steamed peas recipe in this Easy Creamed Peas recipe. Make a quick roux and cheese (if you like) and mix with steamed peas and other favorite vegetables. We love using a mild cheddar here for maximum creaminess.