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| snap pea growing on the vine |
I’ve discovered that peas are an affordable, easy way to put more nutrients, protein, and fiber into our meals. I enjoy the sensory
pleasure of seeing their bright green color, and savoring their refreshing taste and crunch. I also love to munch on raw peas (as a snack), and include peas in soups, casseroles,
stir fries, and the sautés I cook at home.
Peas are not actually a vegetable
but a small, edible legume and as such they belong to the same family as
lentils, chickpeas, beans and peanuts. Peas grow in pods on a vine and once the
pod is plump, they are ripe for picking. For more details about Legumes and
Pulses read this article from The Harvard T H Chan School
of Public Health.
Shell peas (var. sativum): This type of pea has been removed from the fibrous pod, and can be eaten raw or cooked. Some varieties (petite pois) are bred to be picked when small.
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| shell peas |
Edible-podded peas (var. macrocarpon): Eat both the pods and peas together. Often called snap peas (sweet snap peas) or snow peas. The first has plump pods, and the other flat pods. Eat either type raw or cooked.
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| snap pea |
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| snow peas |
Dry peas or field peas (var. arvense): These peas are left on the vine until they mature and harden. Then they are dried and stored. Cook this kind of pea in soup recipes and some other hot dishes.
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| green pea soup with croutons (made from dried peas) |
Peas Support Digestive Health: Peas are high in
fiber, and promote growth of good bacteria, aiding digestion and reducing
gastrointestinal issues.
Peas Boost Heart Health: They contain minerals like
potassium and magnesium, which contribute to healthy blood pressure, while
fiber helps lower cholesterol.
Peas help Promote Weight Management: The high protein and
fiber content in peas keeps you feeling full, aiding in satiety and long-term
weight management.
Peas Support Eye and Skin Health: Peas are rich in lutein
and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that protect eyes from age-related macular
degeneration and cataracts.
Peas Help with Blood Sugar Regulation: With a low glycemic
index, peas are an excellent choice for stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Peas Strengthen Immune System: They provide a significant
amount of Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and other antioxidants, supporting
overall immune function.
Peas are Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Peas are a great
source of protein for vegetarians and vegans to help build and repair muscles,
bones, and skin.
Peas Support Pregnancy: They are a good source of folate,
which is crucial for lowering the risk of birth defects.
Note: This information is provided for entertainment
and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical
or nutritional advice. Please consult with a health pro, if that is
what you seek.
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| Photo from Judee Algazi, Gluten Free A-Z Blog (made from frozen peas) |
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| Photo of Vegan Fettuccine from Debra Klein |
I do like peas and my favorite way to eat them is raw off the vine. I learned a few things from your post. I had no idea peas were classified as a legume the same as chickpeas. I appreciate that you included my fresh green pea soup in your post. Thanks and have a healthy day.
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