Name: Quick and Delicious Canned Black Eyed Peas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 0.5 medium onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 15 ounces canned black eyed peas, drained and rinsed; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste; 0.25 cup chicken broth or water 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 0.5 teaspoon sugar (optional) Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Canned black eyed peas are a weeknight lifesaver. They pack in tons of nutrition, are budget-friendly, and take on flavor beautifully with the right seasonings. Whether you’re after a soul-warming side or a quick main dish, this recipe is your shortcut to a hearty and satisfying meal.

The best part? You don’t need to soak or prep beans from scratch. With canned black eyed peas, you’re already halfway there. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a dish that feels like it simmered all day — perfect with rice, cornbread, or even straight from the bowl.

What Kind of Canned Black Eyed Peas Should I Use?

Look for canned black eyed peas with low sodium so you can better control the seasoning. If your can is already seasoned, just drain and rinse before using. You want them tender but not mushy. If you’re using unseasoned ones, this recipe is ideal to build layers of flavor from scratch.

Ingredients for the Quick and Delicious Canned Black Eyed Peas

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (15-ounce) can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances flavors)
Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Quick and Delicious Canned Black Eyed Peas (1)

How To Make the Quick and Delicious Canned Black Eyed Peas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add Spices and Peas

Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the onions, then add the black eyed peas and stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Simmer to Blend Flavors

Pour in the broth and let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes. This allows the peas to absorb all the delicious seasoning.

Step 4: Finish with Tang and Brightness

Turn off the heat and stir in apple cider vinegar and a pinch of sugar if needed. Taste and adjust seasonings. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Peas

These black eyed peas are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm over rice, pair with collard greens, or spoon them over a baked sweet potato. They’re also great alongside roasted chicken or pork chops.

To store, let them cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried black eyed peas instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them in advance. This recipe is designed for the convenience of canned peas.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can be! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I make it spicier?

Increase the cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce at the end.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

Lemon juice or white wine vinegar works great as a substitute.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just scale up the ingredients accordingly and use a larger pan.

Will this freeze well?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Want More Side Dish Ideas with Big Flavor?

If this quick black eyed peas recipe hit the spot, check out these flavor-packed ideas next:

Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for a hearty and satisfying side.
Oven Roasted Root Vegetables if you’re in the mood for cozy and colorful.
Authentic 7-Layer Mexican Dip for your next gathering.
Funeral Potatoes for rich, creamy comfort.
Broccoli Salad to lighten things up with crunch.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for easy side dishes and come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how you served yours! Did you spice it up more? Pair it with a main dish? I’m always curious how you make these your own.

Find more delicious everyday recipes on my Pinterest: Nina Dishes

Quick and Delicious Canned Black Eyed Peas

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This quick and delicious canned black eyed peas recipe is a go-to side dish that’s ready in 20 minutes. Packed with flavor, budget-friendly, and perfect with rice, cornbread, or on its own, it’s a comforting Southern-style classic made simple.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the onions, then add the black eyed peas and stir gently to combine.

3. Pour in the broth and let the mixture simmer for about 8–10 minutes. This allows the peas to absorb all the delicious seasoning.

4. Turn off the heat and stir in apple cider vinegar and a pinch of sugar if needed. Taste and adjust seasonings. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.