Peas have been a part of our diets for centuries and are well-known for their health benefits. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants making them an essential addition to any meal. When it comes to fresh picked peas, nothing beats their crisp and sweet flavour.
Cooking Fresh Picked Peas:
Fresh picked pea pods contain a row of tiny peas and should be crisp, bright green and smooth when you are selecting them at our store. The peas inside are tender and great in salads, soups, and curries. If you want to enjoy peas as a side dish, a quick boil is the way to go. All you need to do is remove them from the pods, add them to a pot of boiling water and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Drain them and add a dollop of butter, salt, and pepper for an easy and delicious side dish.
Eating Fresh Picked Peas Raw:
Fresh picked peas are perfect to be eaten raw as they are incredibly sweet and flavourful. Simply wash the pods, and ‘pod’ them to free the peas. You can eat them whole or add them to salads for a refreshing crunch. You can also pair them with dips such as hummus, guacamole, or tzatziki for a healthy snack.
Preserving Fresh Picked Peas:
If you have an abundance of fresh picked peas and cannot consume them all, you can easily preserve them for later use. Blanching and freezing are the two most popular techniques for preserving fresh Okanagan peas. Start by blanching them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain them and pack them in airtight freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
Pairing Fresh Kelowna Peas with Other Foods:
Fresh BC peas pair well with many dishes such as pasta, stirfry, or roasted vegetables. You can even use them as a topping on pizza or as an ingredient in a quiche or frittata. They also complement seafood recipes such as shrimp scampi or grilled fish. Fresh peas are versatile and can be used in any recipe that calls for peas.
Health Benefits of Fresh Picked Peas:
Fresh picked peas are a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A, which help boost the immune system, improve eyesight and bone health. They also contain high amounts of fiber, which aids in digestion, and antioxidants that prevent cell damage. Consuming fresh picked peas regularly can help reduce the risk of several diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
At Don-O-Ray Farms, we think that fresh peas are one of the most versatile and flavourful vegetables available this spring. They can be used in a variety of dishes – from pasta to dips – and offer numerous health benefits. Whether you’re cooking them, eating them raw, or preserving them, fresh picked peas are a tasty and nutritious addition to any meal. Give them a try and experience their vibrant taste for yourself!
Drop By Our Kelowna Fruit/Vegetable Stand
Fresh fruit, herbs and veggies, ice cream, shop online for jams and Butter chicken sauce, locally sourced meat and other farm products. Open 9 am to 7 pm, 7 days a week.
