Simple Lemony Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar Snap Peas are a delightful Spring vegetable and they should be enjoyed during the season. They are one of my favorite vegetables and I like them done very simply so that nothing takes away that wonderful fresh Pea flavor and crispness of the pods. Be sure to take the time to snip off the ends and remove the strings, it's worth it!  Usually, I just blanch them for three minutes and then season them with Sesame Oil and Salt to give it a lightly Asian flavor. But for Easter, I was bringing it as a side dish to a family gathering and decided to change it up just a little bit and so I seasoned them instead with Butter and Lemon, some grated Lemon Zest and a sprinkle of Sea Salt. The Snap Pea Pods were so delicious this way. The Lemon Zest gave it an extra special touch and made the presentation beautiful as well. This is such a simple recipe, but so worth making!

Simple Lemony Sugar Snap Peas

1 pound Sugar Snap Peas

2 Tablespoons Butter

Zest of one small Lemon (about 1 teaspoon)

Juice of one small Lemon (about 1 1/2 Tablespoons)

1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt (I used Maldon's)

Remove the tips and any strings that you can from the Peas. Heat a pot of water to a boil and add the Peas. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes (no longer) and remove to a strainer and cool off with cold water. Place in a serving bowl.

Heat the Butter in a small frying pan until melted and add in the Lemon Juice and Salt.  Pour over the Peas and toss. Then sprinkle on the Lemon Zest before serving.

Five Element Analysis

Peas are very fast growing early spring vegetables so they are considered part of the Wood Element and the Lemon Juice adds even more. But because they are so sweet, they are Earthy too.  The Butter contributes the Metal Element and finally the Lemon Zest adds in the Fire Element and the bit of Salt makes sure the Water Element is present too. Strangely, this little dish has more Five Element balance than most although it is primarily a Wood dish.