Peas

Species name: Pisum sativum

Peas are native to Asia and central Europe. They are considered a super food because they are rich in protein, fiber, folic acid, vitamins, and minerals. A pea will begin to convert its natural sugars into starch the moment that it is picked. It is for this reason that it is best to eat peas soon after they are removed from the plant.

There are many varieties of pea, including the sweet green pea and the mange tout or snow pea. The sweet green variety is also known as the English pea, the garden pea, or petits pois. The pod is plump and bright green in color. When immature, the sweet green pea seed is delicious. The seeds are crunchy and sweet. As the pea pod matures, it will lose its sweetness and will not be as desirable.