GET OUR STAR OF THE WEEK EMAIL subscribe

Fun Facts

There may be over a thousand varieties of peas, but they all fit into one of two categories: those with an edible pod, and those without. The typical garden pea does not have an edible pod, but a snap pea does. The first peas made an appearance back in 9750 BC in Asia. The ancient Greeks and Romans ate peas and may have slurped the first pea soup. Peas still get raves all over the world, from mushy peas in the U.K. to India's aloo matar and stir-fries in China.

Star Power

The humble pea has a lot going for it nutritionally. Free radical destroyer and immune booster vitamin C is ready for action. Plus there's bone-building and brain-sharpening vitamin K, as well as vitamin A for sharp eyesight and healthy looking skin. Folates, niacin, copper and manganese also do their part to keep the body healthy. Did you know that one serving of peas contains as much vitamin C as two apples?

Quick Preps

PREPARE: Place snap peas in a colander, rinse under cool running water and pat dry.

• Eat snap peas raw for a snappy, delicious snack! For a boost of flavor, dip them in hummus.
• Roast snap peas: Toss with sesame oil, sea salt and sesame seeds, then bake at 475 degrees for 10-15 minutes.
• Add snap peas to your stir fry.
• Briefly steam snap peas, then drizzle with olive oil, sea salt and black pepper for a delicious side dish.