1/4 cup dry (35 g) Green Split Peas contain around 100 calories, making them a low-calorie, nutrient-packed food that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet. Whether you're a vegan, trying to lose weight, or simply looking for new ways to add more plant-based foods to your meals, green split peas are a great option to consider.

In addition to being low in calories, green split peas are also rich in a variety of important nutrients. A quarter cup serving provides around 10 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of fiber, as well as a range of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium.

In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of green split peas, as well as some creative ways to use them in your cooking.

What are Green Split Peas?

Green split peas are a type of legume that are harvested when the pea pods are mature and dry. The peas are then split in half, leaving two halves that are flat and yellow-green in color. These split peas are a common ingredient in many cuisines around the world, particularly in dishes that originate from the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. Green split peas can be purchased in both dried and canned forms, and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

Nutritional Facts of Green Split Peas

In addition to being relatively low in calories, green split peas are also packed with a variety of beneficial nutrients. One quarter cup serving contains around 10 grams of protein, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of fiber. Split peas are also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Overall, green split peas are a nutrient-dense, low-calorie food that can offer a range of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Green Split Peas

Green split peas are not only delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits. Here are several key reasons to add them to your diet: - High in fiber: As a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, green split peas can help keep your digestive system running smoothly. - Good for heart health: The fiber, potassium, and folate in green split peas can help reduce your risk of heart disease and promote good cardiovascular health.

Green Split Peas for Weight Loss

If you're trying to lose weight, green split peas are a food to consider adding to your diet. Here are several reasons why: - Low in calories: A quarter cup serving of green split peas contains only around 100 calories, making it a great low-calorie option. - High in protein and fiber: Both of these nutrients help promote feelings of fullness and can help reduce your overall calorie intake throughout the day.

How to Cook Green Split Peas

Cooking green split peas is straightforward and can be done in a variety of ways. Here's a simple stovetop method to get you started: 1. Rinse the peas under running water and pick out any debris or stones. 2. Place the peas in a large pot or saucepan and add enough water to cover them by a couple of inches. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the peas are tender.

Green Split Peas for Vegan Diets

For vegans and vegetarians, green split peas are an excellent source of protein, as well as a variety of important vitamins and minerals. These legumes can be used in a variety of vegan dishes, such as soups, stews, curries, and salads. They are also a great protein source to add to vegan and vegetarian meat alternatives, such as veggie burgers, meatballs, or sausages.

Green Split Peas vs. Yellow Split Peas

While green and yellow split peas are similar in many ways, there are a few key differences to note. Here are some of the main differences between the two: - Color: As the name suggests, green split peas are green in color, while yellow split peas are yellow. - Flavor: Green split peas tend to have a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor than yellow split peas, which are milder and more earthy in taste.

Green Split Peas as a Side Dish

One of the simplest and most flavorful ways to enjoy green split peas is as a side dish. Here's an easy recipe to try: Ingredients: - 1 cup green split peas, rinsed and drained

Green Split Peas in Soups and Stews

Green split peas are a great addition to soups and stews, where they can add both flavor and texture. Here's a simple recipe to try: Ingredients: - 1 cup green split peas, rinsed and drained

Green Split Peas in Salads

Green split peas can add a healthy dose of plant-based protein and fiber to your salads. Try this tasty recipe for a hearty and satisfying salad: Ingredients: - 1/2 cup green split peas, cooked and cooled