Are you ready to take a delicious trip down memory lane? Remember when your mom used to say, “Finish your peas, they’re good for you!” Well, as it turns out, mom was right! Peas are one of the healthiest foods out there – especially for vegetarians. Those tiny green dots may look petty, but they are actually packed with protein, fiber, micronutrients, and what’s even better… low in calories. Just take a look at some of the health benefits that come with green peas.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
One cup of peas has less than 100 calories, but is full of protein (8g), fiber (7g), and micronutrients.
HEALTHY BONES
Just one cup of peas contains 44% of your daily vitamin K, which helps to anchor calcium inside the bones. The B vitamins found in peas also help in the prevention of osteoporosis.
ANTI-AGING
Peas have strong anti-inflammatory properties which take part in the prevention of wrinkles. Excess inflammation has also been linked to heart disease, cancer, and aging in general. These anti-aging properties include-
- pisumsaponins I & II and pisomosides A & B (anti-inflammatory phytonutrients found almost exclusively in peas)
- vitamin C and vitamin E, and the mineral zinc
- omega-3 fat in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
REDUCES BAD CHOLESTEROL
The niacin in peas helps reduce the production of triglycerides and VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), which results in less bad cholesterol, increased HDL “good” cholesterol, and lowered triglycerides.
REGULATES BLOOD SUGAR
The high fiber and protein content of peas slows down how fast sugar is digested in the body, while the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents in peas prevent or reverse insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes).
Let’s take advantage of all the benefits of peas with this delicious veggie dip… it’s peas and carrots all grown up!
ingredients
- 1 cup frozen petite peas
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp tahini
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a food processor fitted with a metal "S" blade (make sure to let the peas thaw for a couple hours first to allow for a creamy texture).
- Process until smooth.
- Serve as a dip with fresh carrots or your favorite veggie!
notes
Keep in refrigerator, stored in an air-tight container.
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