If you're looking for a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of green peas, then look no further than the frozen food aisle! One 10 oz frozen package of cooked green peas contains approximately 248 calories, making it a healthy and nutrient-rich addition to any meal.
In addition to being a low-calorie food, green peas are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A serving of cooked green peas contains approximately 46% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K, 22% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C, and 15% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A. Green peas are also an excellent source of fiber, protein, and iron.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of green peas, as well as some tips for cooking and storing frozen green peas.
One serving of cooked green peas (approximately 1/2 cup) contains:
- calories: 62
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Fat: 0.4 grams
- Vitamin K: 42% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 16% of the DV
- Vitamin A: 14% of the DV
- Folate: 10% of the DV
- Iron: 8% of the DV
Green peas are also a good source of other vitamins and minerals, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.
Health Benefits of Green Peas
Green peas are an incredibly nutrient-dense food that offer a wide range of health benefits. Some of the most notable benefits of green peas include:
- Improved digestive health: Green peas are a rich source of fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and prevent conditions like constipation, bloating, and diarrhea.
- Reduced risk of chronic disease: Green peas are loaded with antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
- Better bone health: Green peas are a good source of vitamin K, which plays an important role in bone health by helping to regulate calcium absorption.
- Healthy weight management: Green peas are a low-calorie and high-fiber food that can help promote feelings of fullness, reduce calorie intake, and support healthy weight management.
Overall, adding green peas to your diet can be a great way to boost your nutrient intake and improve your overall health.
Cooking Techniques for Frozen Green Peas
Frozen green peas are incredibly easy to prepare and can be used in a wide range of recipes. Here are some cooking techniques to consider when using frozen green peas:
- Boiling: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and season with salt and pepper, or use in your favorite recipe.
- Microwaving: Place the frozen peas in a microwave-safe bowl and add a tablespoon of water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
- Roasting: Toss frozen peas with olive oil and spices, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
No matter how you choose to cook your frozen green peas, they are sure to be a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal!
Recipe Ideas Using Frozen Green Peas
Looking for some new and creative ways to use frozen green peas? Try one of these delicious and healthy recipes:
- Green pea risotto
- Green pea soup
- Green pea and mint salad
- Sweet and spicy green peas
- Green pea hummus
No matter what recipe you choose, be sure to enjoy the many health benefits of frozen green peas!
Storage Tips for Frozen Green Peas
To ensure the quality and freshness of your frozen green peas, follow these simple storage tips:
- Keep your frozen green peas in an airtight container or plastic bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label and date your container or bag so you can easily identify the contents and freshness.
- Store your frozen green peas in the back of the freezer, where the temperature is most consistent and cold.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the great taste and health benefits of frozen green peas for many months to come!
Comparison of Fresh and Frozen Green Peas
While fresh green peas may be the preferred choice for some, frozen green peas are a convenient and practical option that offer many of the same health benefits. Here are some of the key differences between fresh and frozen green peas:
- Convenience: Frozen green peas are already cooked and require no prep, while fresh green peas can be time-consuming to prepare.
- Nutrient content: While fresh green peas may contain slightly more nutrients than frozen green peas, the difference is minimal and often negligible.
- Availability: Frozen green peas are available year-round, while fresh green peas are only available seasonally.
Ultimately, the choice between fresh and frozen green peas comes down to personal preference and convenience.
How to Choose High-Quality Frozen Green Peas
When shopping for frozen green peas, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you are getting a high-quality product:
- Color: Look for bright green peas that are evenly sized and not discolored or shriveled.
- Texture: The peas should be firm and not mushy or tough.
- Packaging: Choose peas that are packaged in airtight containers or bags to protect against freezer burn and maintain freshness.
- Brand: Choose reputable brands that have a track record of producing high-quality frozen vegetables.
By choosing high-quality frozen green peas, you can be sure you are getting a nutritious and delicious product that is both convenient and easy to use.
Potential Side Effects of Consuming Green Peas
While green peas are generally considered a safe and healthy food for most people, some individuals may experience side effects when consuming larger quantities. Some of the most common side effects associated with green peas include gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort. If you experience these symptoms after eating green peas, you may want to reduce your intake or try cooking them in different ways to see if that improves your symptoms. In some cases, consuming green peas in moderation may actually help improve digestive health and reduce symptoms of bloating and gas. If you have any concerns about consuming green peas, it is always best to speak with your healthcare provider.
Green Peas in Different Cuisines
Green peas are a versatile food that can be used in many different types of cuisine. Here are just a few examples of how green peas are used around the world:
- Indian cuisine: Green peas are often used in popular dishes like mattar paneer (peas and cheese), aloo mutter (peas and potatoes), and samosas.
- Mediterranean cuisine: Green peas are used in Mediterranean salads and stews, as well as in popular dishes like falafel and hummus.
- American cuisine: Green peas are often used in classic dishes like pot pie, shepherd's pie, and split pea soup.
- Asian cuisine: Green peas are used in stir-fries, spring rolls, and noodle dishes in many Asian cuisines.
No matter what type of cuisine you prefer, there is sure to be a delicious and healthy recipe that incorporates green peas!
Green Peas as a Source of Protein and Fiber
One of the biggest health benefits of green peas is their high protein and fiber content. Green peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, with approximately 4 grams of protein per 1/2 cup serving. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion, reduce appetite, and support weight loss efforts. If you are looking to incorporate more plant-based protein and fiber into your diet, then adding green peas to your meals is a great way to do it. You can use them in salads, stews, soups, and many other dishes to boost the nutritional profile and flavor of your meals. Overall, green peas are a healthy and delicious food that offer many of the key vitamins, minerals, and nutrients your body needs to function at its best.
Green peas are a convenient and practical option that offer many of the same health benefits as fresh green peas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Green Peas
1. How many peas are in a 10 oz frozen package?
It's difficult to give an exact number as it can vary based on the size of the peas, but on average, a 10 oz package of frozen green peas contains about 2 cups or 300 peas.
2. How many calories are in a serving of cooked green peas?
A 10 oz frozen package of cooked green peas contains approximately 248 calories, but a 1 cup serving is typically around 65-70 calories.
3. Are cooked green peas high in protein?
Yes, cooked green peas are a good source of plant-based protein. One cup of cooked green peas contains about 8 grams of protein.
4. Can I microwave frozen green peas?
Yes, you can microwave frozen green peas by placing them in a microwave-safe dish with a little bit of water and heating them for 2-3 minutes or until they are heated through.
5. Are there any health benefits to eating cooked green peas?
Yes, cooked green peas are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy addition to any diet.