Food and nutrition is something every human on the planet needs. That’s why I love my profession! As a Registered Dietitian, I don’t always talk about food on my blog… but when I do, I try to combine facts with practical application! 🙂

So, let’s talk green peas. I have some peas as food models at work, and they really cheer up my office! As they caught my eye yesterday, I started thinking of the number of patients who always comment on them. Most people say the serving size (half a cup) is so small!

But, when it comes to peas, you either love them or hate them. Perhaps your parents forced you to eat them before leaving the dinner table as a kid. Perhaps you secretly fed them to the dog. (I won’t tell!)

Peas come fresh or frozen or in cans. You may even grow them in pods in your garden.  They are both starchy vegetables and legumes. Peas are high in fiber and protein. They have are high in micronutrients and antioxidants, too! Check out other nutrition facts here!

Peas can be eaten alone or in a dish. Snap peas (pea pods) are kind of fun, either with dip or in stir fries. I add peas to pasta, soups, eggs, or anywhere I need a little color. I really enjoy them on top of salads, especially when they pop in my mouth!

If you’re a fan of the Veggie Tales series, you may recall the cute little French peas: Jean-Claude and Phillipe. Apparently, they are not related… and speak with Swedish accents! 🙂

You may have seen a few catchy sayings, like ‘give peas a chance’ or ‘visualize whirled peas’ or ‘make peas, not war.’ Of course, these are plays on the word ‘peace.’

As I was thinking of all-things-peas, I thought of how steaming is perhaps the easiest way to make peas quickly. Then, I thought how frozen peas are changed for the better through cooking. But, it’s probably not a ‘fun’ process for those little peas!

Basically, peas alone are nice, but the nutrition is inaccessible unless you eat them. So, really, all the healthy benefits of peas only occur after great pressure and heat. Isn’t that an interesting parallel to life?!

Trials can make or break us. When the pressures of life come, when the heat is on, let’s ask God to transform us and make something good. We ourselves are changed, but He can even use us to bless others!

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Lord, thanks for turning all our trials into something useful (and potentially sweet). Help us trust You with our potential, especially when the pressure and heat turn up. May we honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy peas? If so, what is your favorite way to eat them?

Tasks: If you love peas, eat some today! If you are not a fan, try one new way to enjoy peas. Check out these recipe ideas. Yes, give peas a chance! Peas and thank you! 😉