Fried peas make a delicious side dish, salad topping or vegetarian stir-fry and are an excellent source of low-fat protein. One serving of fried green peas provides you with 9 g of protein. Fried peas are crunchier and more flavored than peas prepared in other ways. No matter what you eat your green peas with, you might not ever go back to eating plain old peas again.

Place 1 cup dried peas in a medium-sized bowl. Fill the bowl with 2 cups water and let the peas soak for 8 hours.

Strain the peas in a colander and pat dry with a paper towel.

Place a 10-inch skillet on a stove burner and turn the heat on medium-high. Add 4 tbsp. of butter or olive oil to the skillet. Alternatively, you can use 2 tbsp. of butter and 2 tbsp. of olive oil.

Melt the butter or bring the olive oil to a sizzle. This should take about 2 minutes.

Place the peas in the skillet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook for five minutes or until golden brown. Use a large nonstick utensil, such as silicon or a plastic spoon to stir the peas.

Remove the peas from the pan and transfer to a serving dish or bowl. Use the peas as a side dish or add them to your green, leafy salad.