Snap Pea
What are snap peas?
Snap peas, also known as sugar snap peas, are a type of edible-podded pea. Snap peas are called "snap" peas because of the sound they make when they are snapped in half.
Snap peas have a bright green color and are typically harvested when the peas inside the pod are small and sweet.
Snap peas also contain pea tendrils, which are the thin, curly vines that grow out from pea plants. In addition to their culinary uses, pea tendrils are also used in gardening as a way to provide support for climbing plants like peas, beans, and cucumbers.
Snappy facts about snap peas
Whether you’re sharing a snap pea with your buddy or want to impress your dinner party guests (even more), here are some snappy facts about our favorite little pea:
Snap peas were first developed by Dr. Calvin Lamborn in Idaho, who was trying to create a new type of edible pea. Snap peas are a hybrid of two other types of peas: snow peas and English peas.
Snap peas are a good source of natural sugars and are one of the few vegetables that is sweet-tasting.
Snap peas are a great vegetable for kids to snack on because they are crunchy, sweet, and easy to eat.
Snap peas are typically in season from late spring to early summer and are grown in many regions around the world.
What do snap peas pair well with?
Snap peas have a fresh, sweet flavor and a crunchy texture that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
Here are some ideas for foods and flavors that complement snap peas:
Citrus fruits
Soy sauce
Ginger
Sesame oil
Nuts
Fresh herbs
Grilled or roasted meats
Recipes that use snap peas
Hot or cold, snap peas are delicious additions to meals and snacks on-the-go. We love putting snap peas on our charcuterie and cheese boards, bringing some color and crunch to the party.
Snap peas are also a star in stir-fries, especially with Asian-inspired flavors like ginger and soy sauce.
Snap peas are a popular and nutritious vegetable that is enjoyed by people of all ages and in many cultures. In addition to being eaten fresh or cooked, snap peas can also be pickled or canned.
What are the health benefits of snap peas?
Snap peas are a tasty vegetable that offers a variety of health benefits and can be incorporated into a balanced diet.
Here are some of the main health benefits of snap peas:
Nutrient-dense: Snap peas are low in calories and high in nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Promote digestive health: The high fiber content in snap peas can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
Support heart health: The fiber, potassium, and antioxidants in snap peas may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Help maintain a healthy weight: Because snap peas are low in calories and high in fiber, they can help you feel full and satisfied while maintaining a healthy weight.
Boost immune function: The vitamin C and antioxidants in snap peas can help support a healthy immune system and protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Support bone health: The vitamin K in snap peas plays a key role in bone health, helping to maintain strong and healthy bones.
This Week’s Harvest
This Week’s Harvest is a one-time purchase to taste the season's goodness. It includes vibrant greens, fragrant herbs, crisp microgreens, and hearty root vegetables, all freshly harvested and delivered to your front door.
Taste This Week’s Harvest for yourself, and then let us know your thoughts. Or, come by for a tour. We are always eager to meet the families we feed and to show off exactly where our food came from.
And we can do so all season long.
Area 2 Farms offers different harvest subscription options to meet your family’s needs. Check out the 4-Week and the 10-Week Farm Subscriptions to choose what works best for you.