Snow Pea Leaves with Garlic

My husband and I love eating dark leafy greens with minced garlic. Some of our favorites are watercress and gai lan. We love the taste and texture of these simple dishes. The best part is that they are healthy so we can eat as much as we want – guilt free. Lately, I have been so obsessed with a similar dish: this sauteed snow pea leaves with garlic that I first tasted during a dim sum meal with my family.  So, when I found out that snow pea leaves were available at my local Asian grocery store, I knew I had to make this dish. This dish is so full of flavor. It is surprising that it tastes this good with just garlic as the aromatic. After washing and draining the snow pea leaves, they are simply added to sautéed garlic and oil. Then, they are seasoned with salt. The result is a healthy vegan/vegetarian dish that is crunchy with a mild bitter aftertaste, just how I like it to be! This dish can be enjoyed as a side dish to any meat or poultry dish or on its own.  I love this dish so much that I now have to buy snow pea leaves whenever I see it at the grocery store. Yum!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Snow Pea Leaves

To get the best results when cooking snow pea leaves, start by selecting fresh, vibrant greens. Look for leaves that are bright green and not wilted. If they look a bit limp, they may not taste as good. Once you have your snow pea leaves, wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. A gentle rinse under cold water works well. After washing, it’s a good idea to dry them using a salad spinner or by patting them down with a clean kitchen towel. This helps avoid excess moisture, which can cause the leaves to steam instead of sauté.

When sautéing, use a good quality oil that can withstand higher temperatures, like canola or grapeseed oil. Heat the oil in the pan before adding the minced garlic, allowing it to infuse the oil with flavor. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. Stir the garlic constantly and add the snow pea leaves when the garlic turns golden. Cook them just until they are bright green and tender, which usually takes only a couple of minutes. This quick cooking retains their crunchiness and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Snow pea leaves with garlic can be enjoyed in various ways. As a side dish, they pair beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to your meal. Consider serving them alongside a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa to balance the meal. You can also toss them into a stir-fry for added texture and flavor, complementing other vegetables or proteins.

If you want to switch things up, try adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil during the cooking process to deepen the flavor. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring some heat to the dish. If you enjoy a nutty flavor, topping the finished dish with toasted sesame seeds can add a delightful crunch. For a more substantial meal, mix in some cooked noodles or rice, turning this simple dish into a delicious, hearty main course. With these variations, snow pea leaves can easily become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for snow pea leaves?

If you can’t find snow pea leaves, try using spinach or kale as a substitute. They won’t have the same exact flavor, but they will still provide that leafy green goodness.

How do I store leftover snow pea leaves?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 2-3 days, but make sure to eat them sooner for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the garlic and wash the snow pea leaves in advance. Just sauté them right before serving for that perfect crunch.

What do I serve with snow pea leaves?

These garlic snow pea leaves pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian meal. They also make a great side dish for any Asian-inspired dinner.

What are common mistakes when cooking snow pea leaves?

One common mistake is overcooking them, which can make them soggy and lose their bright color. Keep the sautéing time short, just enough to wilt them while retaining their crunch.

Snow Pea Leaves with Garlic

Liza Agbanlog

Garlic-infused snow pea leaves sautéed in olive oil create a vibrant, crunchy side dish that's quick to whip up and bursting with flavor. Enjoy the fresh taste!

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic ,minced
• 12 oz snow pea leaves
• kosher salt to taste

Instructions

 

• Prepare snow pea leaves by rinsing thoroughly. Drain and set aside.
• Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Add the pea leaves and stir to coat with oil, adding salt to taste. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes or until leaves are soft and wilted.
• Transfer to a serving plate and serve as a side dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 5mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

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