20-Minute Buttery Sautéed Peas and Carrots
A classic vegetable side dish featuring tender baby carrots and bright green peas sautéed in rich butter with aromatic onion. The vegetables are gently steamed in their own juices with a splash of water or chicken stock, creating a simple yet flavorful accompaniment. Perfect alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a comforting family dinner. This version stands out for its straightforward technique that preserves the natural sweetness of both vegetables while the butter adds richness without overwhelming the fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 1 pound baby carrots4 large carrots1:1vegetariangluten-free
cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons white onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- 1
Heat butter in sauté pan over medium heat using a pan with a lid
- 2
When butter foams, add finely chopped onion
- 3
Cook and stir for 2 minutes
- 4
Add carrots and cook until tender
- 5
Add frozen peas and stir to coat well
- 6
Add water or stock, salt, and pepper
- 7
Cover and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until peas are cooked through
Tips
Use a pan with a lid for the final steaming step to ensure even cooking and prevent moisture loss.
Don't overcook the peas to maintain their bright green color and slight firmness.
Cut large carrots into uniform pieces if substituting for baby carrots to ensure even cooking.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Can prep vegetables up to 1 day ahead, store separately
Serve immediately while hot as side dish
Common Mistakes
Don't add peas too early to avoid overcooking and color loss
Keep heat at medium to prevent butter from browning and becoming bitter
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
cut into pieces
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work well but may need slightly longer cooking time. Add them with the carrots since they take longer to cook than frozen peas.
What if I don't have baby carrots?
Cut 4 large carrots into uniform pieces about the same size as baby carrots. This ensures even cooking and similar texture.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in microwave or sauté pan with a splash of water to refresh.