Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals without adding unnecessary calories? Look no further than garden fresh sweet peas! At only 60 calories per 2/3 cup (89 g) serving, sweet peas are a low calorie option that can add flavor and nutritional value to any dish.
In addition to being low in calories, sweet peas are also a great source of vitamins and minerals. They are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, as well as minerals like iron and manganese. These important nutrients can help support your immune system, blood clotting, and overall health.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of sweet peas and how they can be a versatile addition to your diet.
Low Calorie Content
As mentioned in the introduction, sweet peas are a low calorie food option. 2/3 cup (89 g) of sweet peas only contains 60 calories, making them an ideal addition to any diet. For those watching their calorie intake, sweet peas can be a great replacement for higher calorie foods like potatoes or rice. They can add bulk to a dish without adding unwanted calories.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Sweet peas are packed with a variety of important vitamins and minerals that can help support overall health. They are particularly high in vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and help with wound healing. Additionally, sweet peas contain vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting, as well as folate, which is essential for healthy cell growth and development. Finally, sweet peas are a great source of iron and manganese, which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
Source of Protein
While sweet peas are not a significant source of protein, they do contain some. In fact, 2/3 cup (89 g) of sweet peas contains approximately 4 grams of protein, making them a suitable option for vegetarian and vegan diets. For those looking to increase their protein intake, sweet peas can be paired with other protein-rich foods like quinoa or tofu to create a complete protein source.
Suitable for Vegetarian and Vegan Diets
Sweet peas are a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. They are a source of protein, as well as other important vitamins and minerals. In addition to their nutritional benefits, sweet peas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Versatile Ingredient for a Range of Dishes
Sweet peas can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a versatile ingredient to have on hand. They can be added to soups, stews, or casseroles for added flavor and nutrition. Sweet peas can also be used in salads or as a side dish, either on their own or mixed with other ingredients. Finally, sweet peas can be blended into dips or spreads, like hummus or pesto, for a tasty and nutritious snack option.
Sweet peas are a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Fiber helps promote bowel regularity and can also help reduce the risk of certain diseases like colon cancer. Additionally, sweet peas contain both insoluble and soluble fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall gut health.
May Help Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases
Sweet peas contain a variety of important nutrients that may help lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. For example, the vitamin C found in sweet peas can help reduce inflammation in the body, while the dietary fiber can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Additionally, the folate found in sweet peas has been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer.
Convenient and Easy to Prepare
Sweet peas are a convenient and easy ingredient to prepare. They are available fresh, frozen, or canned and can be prepared in a variety of ways. For fresh sweet peas, simply remove the peas from the pod and blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Frozen sweet peas can be quickly cooked by adding them to boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Canned sweet peas can be easily added to soups or stews, or heated up as a quick side dish.
Long Shelf Life
Sweet peas have a relatively long shelf life, making them a great ingredient to have on hand for quick and easy meals. Fresh sweet peas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while frozen sweet peas can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. Canned sweet peas can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 years.
Available All Year Round
One of the great things about sweet peas is that they are available all year round. While fresh sweet peas are in season from May to September in most areas, frozen and canned sweet peas can be purchased year-round. This makes them a convenient ingredient to have on hand for meals throughout the year, regardless of the season.
Grown and Harvested Locally
If you're looking to support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint, look for sweet peas that are grown and harvested locally. Many farmers markets and grocery stores offer locally grown sweet peas during the summer months, making it easy to find a sustainable and locally sourced ingredient.
"The humble pea has long been a dietary staple around the world, and for good reason. Sweet peas are a delicious and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and nutritional value."
Frequently Asked Questions about Garden Fresh Sweet Peas
1. What are Garden Fresh Sweet Peas?
Garden Fresh Sweet Peas are a type of pea that is commonly grown in gardens and farms. They are known for their sweet and delicate flavor, and are often used in a variety of dishes like soups, salads, and stews.
2. How many calories are in 2/3 cup of Garden Fresh Sweet Peas?
2/3 cup (89 g) of Garden Fresh Sweet Peas contains approximately 60 calories. This makes them a great low-calorie snack option for those who are watching their calorie intake.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of Garden Fresh Sweet Peas?
Garden Fresh Sweet Peas are rich in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. They also contain phytonutrients like carotenoids and flavonols, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. How can I incorporate Garden Fresh Sweet Peas into my diet?
Garden Fresh Sweet Peas are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. You can add them to soups, stews, salads, and pasta dishes, or you can eat them as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
5. Where can I buy Garden Fresh Sweet Peas?
Garden Fresh Sweet Peas can be found in most grocery stores, as well as at farmers' markets and specialty food stores. You can also grow them in your own garden if you have the space and the resources.