Garden-Pea Recipes

Like many vegetables, garden peas are at their peak of flavor and sweetness the moment they are picked.

"Peas-at-Ease Salad" is a colorful
way to enjoy fresh sugar snap peas.

If you know peas only as the little green pearls that spill out of a freezer bag, you should really try them fresh from the pod. In addition to the familar garden pea, watch for snap peas and snow peas, both of which are eaten pod and all. You'll find the freshest peas from January to June, depending on your location; the peak season is March through May.

Look for pods that are crisp, plump, smooth, and brightly colored. Avoid pods that look shriveled or those with brown spots. Store fresh pea pods in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to three days.

Recipes

Basil Peas and Mushrooms >>
Orange-Minted Peas >>
Peas and Onions >>
New Potatoes and Peas >>
Peas-At-Ease Salad >>
Three-Minute Lemon-Tarragon Peas >>