The Diet Logs

How many of us heard that when we were growing up?

But it’s true.  Peas are good for you and  they are a very neglected veggie in homes today.  People that are dieting may tend to skip over peas as they believe the little green veggie contains too many carbohydrates. But even though a cup of peas may contain about 21 grams of carbs,  the benefits of peas in your diet are worthy of being a part of your daily menu.

Peas provide you a source of fiber. They are also high in vitamins K and C, magnesium, folate and thiamin (vitamin B1).  Not bad, right?  Peas are naturally sweet, so eating a handful of them, even by themselves, is much better than grabbing a cookie or piece of candy!

Try peas raw tossed in a salad for quick nutrition. But of course cooking the peas will bring out thir sweetness more, just do not overcook as the little green peas will become green mushy peas quickly!

Here’s an idea for a quick and healthy Spring Pea Salad:

What you’ll need

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
1 tablespoon capers, roughly chopped
1 small shallot, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound green peas, blanched (if fresh) or thawed (if frozen)
1/2 cup (4 ounces) crumbled goat cheese

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mint, capers, shallot, zest, oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the peas and goat cheese and toss gently. Serve at room temperature.

Yield: Makes 4 servings

Irene Bellamy wrote this on April 30th, 2008 and filed it under Diet Logs |