Thaw edamame if frozen.
Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add a pinch of salt to the water.
Cook edamame in the pods for 3–5 minutes (fresh) or 4–6 minutes (frozen) until tender.
Drain and let cool slightly.
Sprinkle with salt, chili flakes, or seasoning if desired.
Hold a pod, squeeze gently to push out the beans, and bite the beans.
Discard the empty pods.
Alternatively, microwave: place beans (or pods) in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover, and microwave 2–4 minutes, then drain and season.