Photo from Wikimedia

The humble garden pea probably originated in South West Asia, but spread throughout Asia, Russia and Europe.

Peas are a rich source of Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and Vitamin C as well as being good sources of protein, fibre, foliate and phosphorus. In smaller quantities Vitamins B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin), Calcium and Iron can be found in fresh produce. B vitamins help to support the body in its daily functions, such as keeping a healthy nervous system, red blood cell formation and keeping skin and hair healthy looking.

Fresh v. Frozen?

As soon as peas are harvested the natural sugar begins to convert into starch. Freezing peas is a quick process and this stops the sugar to starch conversion, making frozen peas taste sweeter and more tender. However, because the peas are blanched before freezing, they loose some of their vitamin and mineral content. However, fresh peas will loose some of these nutrients through boiling and so the difference between fresh and frozen is minimal in terms of nutrients. It is just as easy and quicker to cooker frozen peas in a microwave and retain some of the nutrients.

Peas – the green ingredient

Traditional green peas in the pod are still popular when in season. I used to love shelling peas when helping my dad cook, and would always wait for an opportunity to sneak a few of the tender sweet balls without him catching me! Other varieties of pea include the sugar snap or mangetout which can be eaten whole.

Peas can be used in a variety of ways: fresh green peas, sugar snaps are a great addition to salads. Sugar snaps are really sweet and crunchy and go well with lettuce, cucumbers and peppers.

Try a luxury potato salad: Boil the potatoes until firm and tender, add a small amount of fresh chopped onion to a bowl, chopped gherkins, chopped red pepper, soft baby carrots (sliced) and fresh or frozen petit pois (small green peas) (if using frozen, just defrost in the microwave and add to the salad), mix in the mayonnaise and you have a filling and luxurious salad.

Peas (all varities) are used in Chinese cooking, add to noodle or rice stir-fries.

Mix peas with sweetcorn for an alternative to carrots and broccoli.

Image by Gudlyf via Flickr

Use sugar snaps as a snack when on a diet, not only are they sweet and full of nutrients, but the fibre will keep you full until lunch or dinner time.