Reaching for the frozen peas when your fridge is empty is
not avoiding meal preparation. Despite their image as the vegetable of last
resort, here are four reasons why frozen peas deserve a place at your dinner
table.
1. Protein.
Have you noticed that pea protein now sits alongside other
protein powders? Peas are a legume like chickpeas and kidney beans, and so are
a rich plant-based source of protein, containing about 5.4g per 80g serving.
This is one reason why they are so filling.
2. Low GI.
If you need to monitor your blood sugar levels, peas’ low glycaemic
index and high fibre content will help. They contain a form of starch that
slows digestion, releasing glucose slowly into the bloodstream.
3. Rich in nutrients.
Like many frozen fruit and vegetables, peas are picked when
at the peak of their ripeness and snap frozen within hours. Some studies find
that frozen produce may have more antioxidants and vitamins than their fresh
counterparts. The nutrients in peas include vitamins A, C, K, thiamine, folate,
polyphenol antioxidants, and the minerals iron, manganese and phosphorus.
4. Convenient and low cost.
With rising food prices, buying frozen is one way of keeping
costs down. And storing them in your freezer drawer means you will not be throwing
out vegetables that are not used by the end of the week.