Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas: 5-Minute Crunchy Delight

Name: Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas: 5-Minute Crunchy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound sugar snap peas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 15, 2025

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Let me tell you, if you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious side dish, Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas are where it’s at! I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those busy weeks when cooking felt like a chore, and boy, was it a game changer. These vibrant green beauties are not just packed with nutrients but also come together in a flash—I’m talking about less than 20 minutes from start to finish!

Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas - detail 1

The first time I made them, I was amazed at how crispy and flavorful they turned out, all thanks to my trusty air fryer. Just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s bursting with flavor and crunch. Plus, my kids love them! They devour these peas like candy, and I love knowing they’re munching on something healthy. It’s a win-win! Trust me, once you try Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas, you’ll be adding them to your regular rotation for sure.

Ingredients

1 pound sugar snap peas, washed and trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil, for that perfect crisp and flavor
1 teaspoon garlic powder, to add a little zing
Salt to taste, because every dish deserves a touch of seasoning

How to Prepare Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas

Preparing Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step! Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious, crunchy side dish ready in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your sugar snap peas cook evenly and get that lovely crispiness we all crave!
Wash and trim the sugar snap peas. Rinse them under cool water to remove any dirt. Then, grab a pair of kitchen scissors or simply snap off the tough ends. You want them nice and ready for cooking!
Toss the sugar snap peas in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt to taste. Make sure every pea is coated evenly; this will help enhance the flavor and texture!
Place the sugar snap peas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; give them some space to breathe! This will allow them to cook evenly and get that perfect crisp.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want them tender yet still crunchy!
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like digging into those warm, crispy sugar snap peas right after cooking!

And there you have it! Simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this healthy side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: In just 20 minutes, you can have a scrumptious side dish ready to go. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Health Benefits: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these sugar snap peas are a guilt-free snack or side that you can feel good about serving.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish without any hassle.
Flavorful and Crispy: The air frying method brings out the natural sweetness of the peas while adding a satisfying crunch, thanks to that olive oil and garlic powder.
Kid-Friendly: My kids can’t get enough of them! They’re a fun, colorful addition to any meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Tips for Success

To make your Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips I’ve picked up along the way:

Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time! If you like your sugar snap peas extra crispy, go ahead and add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. Just remember to shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t be shy about mixing things up! Try adding a pinch of cayenne for some heat, or sprinkle in some paprika for a smoky flavor. You could even toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist!
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: It’s tempting to pile those peas in, but overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re making a big batch, cook them in two rounds to ensure they all get that delicious crispiness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sugar snap peas whenever possible. They’ll have a better crunch and flavor than older peas that have been sitting around. Look for bright green, firm pods!
Give Them a Rest: Once you take them out of the air fryer, let the peas sit for a minute before diving in. This helps them finish cooking and lets those flavors meld together even more!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas ever. Enjoy the process, and have fun with it!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the numbers, I want to remind you that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are just estimates. That said, here’s what you can expect from a serving of these delicious Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas!

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 50
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These sugar snap peas are not only tasty but also a great way to add nutrients to your meal without piling on calories. Enjoy knowing you’re making a healthy choice with every crunchy bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you out.

Can I use frozen sugar snap peas for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have frozen sugar snap peas, go ahead and use them. Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry before tossing them with the oil and seasonings. They might not be as crispy as fresh, but they’ll still taste delicious!

What other seasonings can I use with sugar snap peas?

The possibilities are endless! While garlic powder is a classic, you can add a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist, or try some lemon zest for a refreshing zing. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or even a bit of parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor too. Get creative!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about 2-3 days. Just be aware that they might lose some of their crunch over time.

Can I reheat the sugar snap peas?

You can! To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to help them regain some of that crispy texture. Alternatively, you can quickly sauté them in a pan over medium heat. Just don’t overdo it; you want to keep that fresh taste!

What can I serve with Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas?

These peas are incredibly versatile! They make a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. You could also toss them into a salad or serve them alongside rice or quinoa for a complete meal. They add a pop of color and crunch to any plate!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas, and now you’re wondering how to store those leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! First things first, let those peas cool down completely before storage. This helps prevent them from getting soggy.

Once they’re cool, grab an airtight container and pop those peas in there. They’ll last about 2-3 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that while they’ll still taste great, they might lose some of that delightful crunch over time. But hey, they’re still packed with nutrients, so it’s worth it!

Now, when it comes time to reheat, you want to bring back that crispy texture we all love. The best way? Toss them back into the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This little trick works wonders! You could also quickly sauté them in a pan over medium heat if you prefer. Just be careful not to overheat, or they might turn mushy.

And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating tips to keep your Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas as tasty as when they were fresh out of the fryer!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up these fantastic Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas, you might be wondering what to pair them with. Trust me, they’re super versatile and can complement a wide variety of dishes! Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Grilled Chicken: The sweet and crunchy peas are a perfect match for juicy grilled chicken. A squeeze of lemon on both adds a refreshing touch!
Seared Salmon: The rich flavor of salmon pairs beautifully with the lightness of sugar snap peas. Add a drizzle of teriyaki sauce for a delightful fusion.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Toss these peas into a colorful stir-fry packed with bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. They’ll add an extra crunch and vibrant color!
Quinoa Salad: Mix the peas into a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. It makes for a refreshing, healthy meal.
Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based option, serve these peas alongside crispy tofu or tempeh. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some soy sauce will elevate the flavors.

Feel free to get creative! These Air Fryer Sugar Snap Peas can brighten up any plate and make your meals not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings and watch them become a favorite at your table!

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