As we walked through the market, I saw a big pile of fresh, local, sugar snap peas. For me, these are definitely a food that shouts summer. So I had my 6-year-old fill our mesh produce bag full of them, and we brought them home to eat for dinner.

When produce is so fresh and ripe, I think it’s best to let it shine on its own, to let its own natural flavors take the spotlight instead of preparing them with a heavy sauce or another dominant seasoning. So tonight for dinner I lightly steamed the peas, then tossed them with grass-fed butter, salt, and pepper. It was simple. So very simple, yet, at the same time, wonderfully delicious. It was summer on a plate.

Here’s how I prepared them:

Steamed Sugar Snap Peas Recipe

Sugar Snap Peas
Butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Wash the peas, and trim, if desired.

Place peas in a steamer basket and steam for 15 minutes.

Remove peas from heat and place in a large bowl. Toss with butter, salt, and pepper.

Serve and enjoy.

NOTES: I typically use a stainless steel or a wooden steamer basket that sits inside a covered pot with about 3/4-inch of water on the bottom of the pot. I know many people steam things in various types of small steaming appliances. I would imagine they would all take about the same amount of time, but adjust as necessary so the peas are cooked to your desired tenderness.