The Organic Market and Café

Snow Peas

No longer available

Description

Peas like beans are divided into two categories: those with edible pods or inedible pods. The pea we are familiar with, also known as the English pea, green pea, and garden pea, has an inedible pod. Description/Taste English peas have a large grass-green, pod enclosing its round, sweet peas. The pods grown on vines and are not palatable, but the peas inside may be eaten fresh, cooked or dried. Nutritional Value As a fresh vegetable source of protein, English peas are second only to lima beans. A three-fourths cup serving contains about 100 calories and more protein than a tablespoon of peanut butter or a whole egg, and less than one-half gram of fat. Applications Fresh English peas are sweet and tender enough to be eaten raw but may also be prepared cooked. Blanch fresh peas briefly, then drain and process with cilantro, garlic and parmesan into a spread for sandwiches or dip. Blanch and drain fresh peas the mash with a fork, stir in chopped mint and grated pecorino then spread on crostini. Toss fresh peas with baby lettuce, vinagrette, radishes, chopped walnuts and goat cheese for a spring salad. Cook diced onion, potato and peas in vegetable stock, then puree into soup and serve topped with fresh mint. To store, wrap unwashed pea pods in a perforated plastic bag and refrigerate. For optimum quality and taste, use English peas within two to three days of purchase. Shelled English peas may be frozen, but they will lose their crisp texture.