This Crunchy Roasted Green Peas recipe is a quick and satisfying snack that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it supports digestion, keeps you full longer, and provides essential nutrients with minimal calories.
Lightly seasoned and oven-roasted, this snack is low in saturated fat, rich in good fats, and perfect for a simple, everyday treat.
Crunchy Roasted Green Peas
Equipment
- 1 mesh strainer
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 Sheet pan
- Paper Towels
- Measuring spoons – 1 set
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas or fresh, blanched peas
- 2 –3 tsp olive oil
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp garlic powder
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting peas evenly, allowing them to develop a satisfying crunch without burning. While the oven heats, gather your equipment and ingredients so the cooking process flows smoothly. Using a fully preheated oven ensures optimal results.
- Defrost the Peas: Place 2 cups of frozen peas into a mesh strainer and hold it under warm running water for about 1–2 minutes. This gently thaws the peas without cooking them. Alternatively, you can place the frozen peas in a microwave-safe dish with 2 tablespoons of water and microwave for 2–3 minutes on medium heat until just thawed. The aim is to remove the chill while keeping peas firm.
- Drain and Dry Thoroughly: After defrosting, allow the peas to drain completely in the strainer. Transfer them onto a layer of clean paper towels and pat gently to remove excess moisture. Moisture prevents crispiness, so this step is essential. Let the peas rest and air-dry for 30–40 minutes to ensure they are completely dry before seasoning.
- Prepare Seasonings: While peas dry, prepare your seasoning mix. In a mixing bowl, combine 2–3 teaspoons of olive oil, ⅛ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat). Mix thoroughly so the spices blend evenly with the oil. Olive oil helps seasonings adhere while roasting, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Toss the Peas in Seasoning: Transfer the dried peas into the mixing bowl with the seasoning mixture. Gently toss them using a spoon or clean hands until every pea is evenly coated. Avoid smashing the peas; gentle tossing preserves their shape while ensuring an even layer of seasoning.
- Arrange Peas on Sheet Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting. Spread the seasoned peas in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding traps steam, which can make peas soft rather than crisp. A single layer ensures optimal airflow for uniform roasting.
- Roast Until Crispy: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 30–35 minutes, tossing gently halfway through to promote even browning. Keep an eye on the peas in the final minutes; they should turn golden and crisp without burning. The aroma of roasted peas will signal they are ready.
- Cool and Crisp: Remove the peas from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will become even crunchier. Resist the temptation to eat them straight away — cooling is crucial for perfect texture.
- Serve or Store: Once cooled, enjoy these crunchy peas immediately as a healthy snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days to maintain crispness. If stored peas lose their crunch, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
- Final Taste Adjustment: Before serving, taste a small portion of the roasted peas. Add a pinch more salt or seasoning if desired. This final adjustment allows you to customize flavor according to personal preference, ensuring a snack you’ll love every time.
Notes
- Use frozen peas for convenience, but fresh peas work equally well if blanched beforehand.
- Drying the peas thoroughly is essential for achieving maximum crunch — don’t skip the air-drying step.
- Adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Add smoked paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.
- Roasting time may vary depending on your oven, so check peas after 25 minutes to avoid burning.
- For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper slightly or add chili powder.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Crunch
The secret to achieving perfectly crunchy roasted peas lies in preparation and temperature control.
Always ensure peas are dry before seasoning; excess moisture leads to steaming rather than roasting.
Air-drying them for at least 30–40 minutes is a game changer for texture.
Season generously with oil and spices, but avoid over-oiling — too much oil creates soggy results.
Roast in a single layer and toss halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
The final cooling step is equally important, as peas crisp up as they cool.
This method produces peas with a satisfying crunch and bold flavor, ideal for healthy snacking.
Serving Suggestions For Delicious Snacking
These crunchy roasted green peas make a perfect snack on their own, but they can also elevate meals in creative ways.
Sprinkle them over salads for added texture, use as a garnish for soups, or add them to grain bowls for extra crunch.
They pair wonderfully with hummus, yogurt dips, or guacamole.
For a fun appetizer, serve alongside a cheese platter.
They also make a great portable snack for work, school, or road trips — keeping you energized between meals without guilt.
Storage Tips For Fresh Crunch
Store your roasted peas in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp.
Avoid sealing them while still warm, as trapped heat creates condensation and sogginess.
For best results, consume within 2–3 days.
If peas lose their crunch over time, you can refresh them in the oven spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast at 325°F for 5–7 minutes.
This will revive their texture and bring back that delightful crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work perfectly if blanched first. Boil them for 1–2 minutes, then drain and air-dry before seasoning. Frozen peas are convenient, but fresh ones add a brighter flavor.
2. How do I make roasted peas extra crunchy?
Ensure peas are completely dry before roasting. Air-dry them for at least 30–40 minutes after washing. Roast in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan for maximum crispiness.
3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep peas and seasoning ahead, but roasting is best done just before eating to maintain crunch. Stored roasted peas lose crispness over time but can be reheated to refresh texture.
4. What variations can I try for flavors?
Experiment with seasonings: smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, curry powder, or nutritional yeast all work well. Adjust salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or snacking?
Absolutely. This snack is ideal for meal prep because it’s quick to make, nutritious, and keeps well for a couple of days. Portion into containers for grab-and-go snacking throughout the week.
