Green peas are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. At just 83 calories per 100 grams of cooked peas, they're a low-calorie option for those watching their weight. Plus, they're rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any balanced diet.
In addition to being low in calories, green peas are also low in fat. However, they are a good source of vegetarian protein, with 100 grams of cooked peas containing around 5 grams of protein. They're also rich in fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of green peas and provide some creative ways to incorporate them into your next meal.
Rich in Fiber
Green peas are a great source of dietary fiber, containing about 4 grams per 100 grams of cooked peas. Fiber is important for maintaining healthy digestion and can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body can't digest, meaning it passes through the digestive system relatively intact. This can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. To incorporate more fiber into your diet, try adding green peas to soups or stews, or serve them as a side dish with your favorite protein.
Low in Fat
Green peas are naturally low in fat, with less than half a gram of fat per 100 grams of cooked peas. This makes them a great option for those watching their fat intake. In addition to being low in fat, green peas are also a good source of other important nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin K. To enjoy the benefits of green peas while keeping your fat intake low, try adding them to salads or roasted vegetable medleys.
Good Source of Vegetarian Protein
As mentioned earlier, green peas are a good source of vegetarian protein. This makes them an excellent addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet, or for anyone looking to up their protein intake without relying on animal products. In addition to being a good source of protein, green peas also contain complex carbohydrates and other important nutrients like iron and zinc. To add more protein to your diet, try incorporating green peas into veggie burgers or vegetarian chili.
Contains Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Green peas are loaded with important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Folate, in particular, is essential for proper fetal development during pregnancy and may also help lower the risk of certain types of cancer. To get the most out of your green peas, try incorporating them into your meals on a regular basis.
Aids Digestion
Thanks to their high fiber content, green peas can help promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Eating foods that are high in fiber can also help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall gut health. To get the most digestive benefits out of your green peas, try cooking them until they are soft and easy to digest.
Boosts Immunity
Green peas contain vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. To give your immune system a boost, try incorporating more green peas into your diet alongside other vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits and berries.
Green peas contain a number of nutrients that are beneficial for heart health, including fiber, potassium, and folate. Fiber can help reduce cholesterol levels, while potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Folate may also help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can be harmful to the heart. To support your heart health, try adding green peas to your meals alongside other heart-healthy foods like salmon and avocado.
Helps with Weight Management
Thanks to their high fiber and protein content, green peas can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Eating a diet that is high in fiber and protein can also help reduce cravings and keep you feeling satisfied for longer periods of time. To support your weight management goals, try incorporating green peas into your meals as a healthy, low-calorie side dish or snack.
Versatile Ingredient for Various Dishes
One of the great things about green peas is that they are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They work well in soups, stews, curries, salads, pasta dishes, and even as a standalone side dish. To get creative with your green peas, try adding them to your favorite recipes and experimenting with new flavor combinations.
Easy and Quick to Cook
Not only are green peas healthy and nutritious, but they're also incredibly easy and quick to cook. Simply boil them in salted water for a few minutes until tender, or steam them for an even quicker cooking time. To save even more time in the kitchen, consider using frozen green peas, which can be cooked in just a few minutes.
Top 5 FAQs about Cooked Green Peas
1. Are cooked green peas good for weight loss?
Yes, cooked green peas are an excellent option for weight loss as they are low in calories and high in fiber, protein, and nutrients, which can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your overall calorie intake.
2. How to store cooked green peas?
You can store cooked green peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to six months by packing them in a freezer-safe container.
3. How to cook green peas?
You can cook green peas by boiling them in salted water for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Alternatively, you can steam them or sauté them with some olive oil and seasonings for added flavor.
4. What are the health benefits of cooked green peas?
Cooked green peas are an excellent source of vitamins, such as vitamin C, K, and folate, minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc, and antioxidants, which can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. They are also low in fat and high in fiber, which can help with digestion and bowel regularity.
5. How to incorporate cooked green peas into your meals?
You can add cooked green peas to soups, stews, casseroles, salads, or as a side dish with roasted meats or fish. You can also puree them into dips or spreads or add them to your favorite pasta or rice dishes.