Cast Iron Sugar Snap Peas: A Quick Side with Perfect Char

When it comes to side dishes, I love something that’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. That’s exactly what you get with these Cast Iron Sugar Snap Peas. They cook quickly, require just a handful of ingredients, and pair beautifully with all kinds of main courses. Whether you’re grilling up a steak, searing chicken, or cooking seafood, these peas bring the perfect balance of crisp texture and smoky, charred flavor.

One of the things I appreciate about this side dish is how well it takes on different flavors. Their natural sweetness makes them a great match for Asian-inspired dishes, like my Hoisin Honey Grilled Pork Tenderloin. At the same time, their crisp bite works just as well alongside a perfectly grilled steak or a juicy piece of chicken. They’re also a fantastic way to add a fresh element to richer meals, helping to balance out bold flavors.

Before cooking, it’s important to properly clean and prep your sugar snap peas. Start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Then, check for the tough string that runs along the seam of each pod, some varieties are stringless, others may need a quick trim. To remove it, simply snap off the stem end and pull the string down the length of the pod. This step ensures the peas are tender and easy to eat while keeping their natural crunch intact. With just a few minutes of prep, they’re ready to hit the hot cast iron and develop that beautiful char.

Cooking them in a cast iron skillet over high heat brings out a whole new dimension of flavor. As they sear, they develop a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness while adding a subtle smokiness. The garlic adds an aromatic punch, while a simple seasoning of salt and coarse black pepper keeps everything balanced. And the best part? Cast iron sugar snap peas come together in just 10 minutes, making them an easy, go-to side for any meal.

Whether you’re cooking on the stove or using the grill, these cast iron sugar snap peas are a game-changer. They’re quick, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next cookout or weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let me know how you use it. Tag @thatgrillerguy on social media and show off your creations!

Pairs with these recipes:

• Cedar Planked Salmon
• Hoisin Honey Grilled Pork Tenderloin
• Honey Mustard Pork Tenderloin

Cast Iron Sugar Snap Peas: A Quick, Flavorful Side with the Perfect Char

Recipe by That Griller GuyCourse: Sides

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

4

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

With their smoky char, crisp texture, and bold seasoning, these cast iron sugar snap peas are the perfect side for almost any meal. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a staple in your rotation!

Ingredients

• 1 lb sugar snap peas

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp coarse ground black pepper

Directions

• Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stove or grill.
• Add the oil and allow it to warm up.
• Toss in the sugar snap peas, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir often to coat evenly.
• Let the peas char slightly, but be careful not to burn them. This should take about 10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately.