Peas

Credit: Pepetka/Flickr

Did You Know?

Peas and other legumes are in the bean family.

Nutrition Facts

Peas are an incredible source of Vitamins K, C, B1, A, B6, B2, and B3, and manganese, fiber, folate, tryptophan, phosphorus, protein, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and potassium.

Shopping and Storage

When looking for peas, fresh is best, but if you don't have fresh peas available, frozen is the next best option. Fresh peas should have firm, smooth pods, and should be a bright medium green. Avoid peas with overly light or dark coloring, yellowing, graying, or water soaked pods.

If the peas will not be used right away, refrigerate them immediately. Unwashed, unshelled peas will stay fresh in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for several days. Frozen peas can be kept six to twelve months.

Preparation

This nutritious vegetable is delicious eaten plain as a snack, but also added into rice dishes, stir fry, and much more!