Learn How To Blanch Peas For Freezing so you can enjoy their delicious, fresh-from-the-garden taste for months to come. If stored properly, peas will keep for an entire year in the freezer and are perfect to have on hand to add to soups or stews all winter!
Bring a large pot of boiling water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the peas to the boiling water. Do not overcrowd the pot; the peas need room to move around.
Once the peas return to a boil, set a timer and boil (blanch) the peas for 90 seconds. Do not start the timer until the water begins to boil.
When the 90 seconds is up, cool the peas immediately in an ice water bath. Swish the peas around to cool them off quickly, and add more cold water and ice if needed. Once the peas are cooled, drain in a colander.
Freeze peas in medium-sized freezer bags in 1 or 2-cup portions, remove as much air as possible, and seal. You can also flash-freeze cooled peas in a single layer on a kitchen towel on a cookie sheet. Freeze for 2 hours, then transfer the frozen peas into a container or Ziploc bag. Place freezer bags in the freezer and freeze for up to one year.
Notes
Do not freeze peas without blanching them.
Shell, blanch, and freeze peas as soon as you pick them.