Vegetable, Legume | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Peas

Pisum sativum Allergen-Free
peas

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Fabaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European, American
  • Seasonality Spring, Early Summer (fresh), Year-Round (frozen)
  • Source Pea Plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Tiny emerald jewels of sweetness, bringing a pop of color and freshness to any plate."

Definition

Small, round, green legumes, typically harvested unripe and consumed as a vegetable, known for their sweet, starchy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Earthy, Starchy, Mildly Grassy
TextureTender, Slightly Mealy, Bursting
AromaFresh, Green, Vegetal
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Best Storage

Frozen (retains nutrients and flavor best).

Growing Season

Primarily spring.

Protein Content

Approx. 5g per 100g serving.

Nutrition Facts

Per 80g (1/2 cup)
Calories81
Total Fat0.4 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein5.4 g
Total Carbohydrate14.5 g
Dietary Fiber5.1 g
Total Sugars5.7 g
Calcium25 mg
Iron1.5 mg
Potassium244 mg

Chef’s Secret

Blanch fresh peas quickly in boiling water, then shock in ice water to preserve their vibrant color and sweet flavor. A touch of sugar in the blanching water can enhance sweetness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Edamame

1:1

Similar sweetness, texture, and nutritional profile; works well in most applications.

Green Beans (chopped)

1:1

Offers a similar green vegetable crunch and color, but less starchy and sweet.

Lima Beans

1:1

Larger and starchier, but provides a similar creamy, earthy texture and mild flavor.

Frozen Corn

1:1

Offers similar sweetness and small, round texture in cooked dishes, but a different flavor profile.

Buying Guide

Fresh peas should be bright green, firm, and plump. For convenience, frozen peas are an excellent option.

Flavor Pairings

Carrots Mint Potatoes Butter Pasta Rice Chicken Fish

Recipes Using Peas

Dietary Main Ingredient Low Sodium Stove Top

Healthy Fried Rice

This vibrant and healthy fried rice recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and protein, it's surprisingly easy to make and keeps you full for hours. Say goodbye to heavy takeout and hello to a delicious, guilt-free meal that's ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Pasta Preparation

Fake Crab Stroganoff

This surprisingly delicious Fake Crab Stroganoff recipe is a family favorite! Our son enjoyed it for years before discovering the 'secret' ingredient – delicious, budget-friendly imitation crab meat! But hey, feel free to use real crab for an extra luxurious treat. This lighter take uses low-fat sour cream and soup, and butter-flavored cooking spray instead of butter, significantly reducing fat without sacrificing flavor. Quick, easy, and perfect served with a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Easy 3 Steps Or Less

30 Minute Shepherd's Pie

Craving comfort food? This 30-Minute Shepherd's Pie, inspired by Rachael Ray, delivers incredible flavor in a flash! Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this the perfect weeknight meal. Tender meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and a perfectly browned top – pure deliciousness!

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Low In Something Asian 30 Minutes Or Less Low Sodium

Aaloo Mattar Indian Style Peas And Potatoes

Master the art of flavorful Indian vegetable curries with this simple Aloo Mattar recipe! This versatile recipe uses boiled potatoes and peas as a base, easily adaptable to create countless vegetable curries – from spinach and cauliflower to capsicum and mushrooms. Learn the foundational technique and discover endless culinary possibilities. Enjoy this delicious dish with warm naan or fluffy rice. A quick, easy, and satisfying vegetarian meal!

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Time To Make Comfort Food Ham Main Dish

Alfredo Potato Casserole

Indulge in this creamy and comforting Alfredo Potato Casserole! Layers of fluffy potatoes, savory ham, sweet peas, and sharp Swiss cheese are baked to perfection in a rich Alfredo sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds the perfect finishing touch. Easily customizable with frozen spinach or broccoli for a healthy twist. This classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

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Course Salads Main Ingredient Preparation

Anne's Colourful Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad recipe, from my friend Anne, is a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a quick weeknight meal! It's easy to make, customizable to your favorite veggies, and bursting with fresh flavor. The unique dressing sets it apart from other pasta salads you've tried. Get ready for rave reviews!

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North American Preparation Occasion Seasonal

Autumn Chicken And Butternut Squash Stew

Indulge in this comforting and healthy Autumn Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew, inspired by the Green Mountain at Fox Run women's fitness retreat! This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in and features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with sweet butternut squash (or substitute with acorn squash or pumpkin), aromatic herbs, and a touch of wine. A delicious and nutritious meal for weight management, packed with flavor and fall goodness. Easy to make and perfect for meal prepping!

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Inexpensive Dietary Pasta Inexpensive

Baby Boomer Tuna Casserole

Relive childhood memories with this classic Baby Boomer Tuna Casserole recipe! Grandma's 1960s secret? Creamy, dreamy tuna, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a crunchy potato chip topping that's pure comfort food. Easy to make and guaranteed to bring back warm, fuzzy feelings. Get ready for a taste of nostalgia!

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Occasion Healthy 2 Soups Stews Time To Make

Barb's Hearty Beef And Vegetable Soup

A family heirloom recipe passed down through generations, this hearty beef and vegetable soup is bursting with flavor and packed with goodness! Loaded with 10+ vegetables and tender beef, it's the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a chilly evening or using up leftover veggies, this soup is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Grains Side Dishes Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation

Barley And Red Lentil Pilaf

This hearty and flavorful Barley and Red Lentil Pilaf, inspired by a classic Good Taste recipe (2001), is a comforting vegetarian dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The nutty barley and earthy lentils combine beautifully with warming spices and tender vegetables for a satisfying and wholesome meal. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Vegetarian

Barley Risotto

This hearty and flavorful barley risotto is a fantastic way to use up leftover roasted vegetables! A delicious and healthy alternative to traditional rice risotto, perfect alongside a roast chicken or as a satisfying vegetarian main course. Easily doubled for a crowd, this recipe is packed with flavor and sure to become a weeknight favorite. #barleyrisotto #vegetarianrecipe #roastedvegetables #easyrecipe #comfortfood

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Main Dish Easy Curries Onions

Beef Curry For Crock Pot

This slow-cooked crock-pot beef curry delivers a surprisingly mild and subtly spiced flavor profile. Forget watery curries! This recipe creates a hearty, roast-like dish with tender beef chunks and sweet vegetables. The generous amount of curry powder, slow-cooked to perfection, yields a depth of flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the ingredients. No rice needed – enjoy it as is! Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend dinner.

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One Dish Meal Main Dish Comfort Food 60 Minutes Or Less

Beef Pot Pie The Best

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: a rich and savory Beef Pot Pie! This recipe elevates classic beef stew by baking it in a deep quiche dish for a hearty, flavorful experience. Perfect for chilly evenings, this pot pie is brimming with tender beef, mixed vegetables, and a flaky, golden crust. Get ready to savor the warmth and deliciousness!

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Time To Make Asian Meat Cuisine

Beef Wonton Samosas

Crispy, golden-brown Beef Wonton Samosas bursting with savory spiced beef and potatoes! This recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a party appetizer or a satisfying main course. Easily baked or fried for your convenience. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

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Beginner Cook 4 Hours Or Less Beef Dietary

Beef Barley And Vegetable Soup

This comforting Beef Barley and Vegetable Soup bursts with fresh flavor! Simple to make, it's perfect for a cozy night in and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this delicious, healthy meal made in either a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

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Savory Pies Meat Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Best Chicken Pot Pie

This surprisingly delicious chicken pot pie recipe is a family favorite! Forget everything you thought you knew about pot pie – this version is so flavorful and satisfying, you won't even miss the chicken (yes, really!). A creamy, vegetable-packed filling nestled in a flaky crust, it's the perfect comforting meal for any night of the week. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Cuisine American North American Main Dish

Gobbler Cobbler

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a bubbly, comforting Gobbler Cobbler! This easy recipe uses leftover turkey, gravy, and veggies to create a delicious casserole topped with a golden-brown biscuit topping. A fantastic way to minimize food waste and maximize flavor. Adapted from razzledazzle recipes.

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60 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Pasta Penne

Penne With Sausage Peas And Mascarpone

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Penne with Sausage, Peas, and Mascarpone! Inspired by a Bon Appetit classic (September 1995), this recipe features juicy Italian sausage, sweet peas, and rich mascarpone cheese in a delectable sauce. Easily adaptable, even if you don't have mascarpone – simply use cream cheese and whipping cream! This quick and satisfying pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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