Easy Peasy 7 Things Made Better by Adding Peas ...

Anytime I eat at a salad bar, I pile cold peas onto my plate of greens. They are so good that way! Sometimes I even thaw some peas and add them to tossed salad at home. They won’t dramatically alter the flavor of your favorite salad, but they lend enough texture and taste to take things to a whole new level.

Who doesn’t love a big bowl of mac and cheese? But you probably know that it’s not that healthy as meal. Toss in a couple of handfuls of peas and the problem is solved. You’ll up your nutrient intake without ruining your favorite meal. Plus, there’s something about those little flecks of green in mac and cheese that makes it look even more appetizing.

Most stew recipes call for potatoes, carrots and onions, but I think they are lacking some green. So I add peas to mine. The more colorful a meal is, the healthier it probably is (unless we’re talking about Fruity Pebbles or Skittles). By adding peas to your stew, you make it more satisfying and hearty and you can spread it just a bit further so you have leftovers for lunch the next day. Bonus!

Cooked peas are really easy to mash, which makes them perfect for spreads and dips to please your palette. Add them to bean dips, hummus or guacamole for a whole new masterpiece to share with family and friends. The usual corn chips and crackers work well for any dip that includes peas.

Creamy pasta dishes taste fabulous with peas added. Use them to beef up alfredo or Parmesan cheese sauces. The color is great and the peas add just that right touch of texture to a creamy meal. Pair the peas with bacon for an even better pasta dish.

Rice pilaf is a great side dish for serving alongside chicken, fish or steak. It’s super easy to make and you can customize it just the way you like it. Peas are a great ingredient option. They work really well with mushrooms and celery. You can also use peas in risotto, orzo, couscous, quinoa and wild rice recipes. Tasty and easy? What more could you ask for?

Once you have peas in your mashed potatoes, you will never go back to the plain version ever again. I promise! First, mash the potatoes like you typically do, then toss in a couple handfuls of peas and fold them into the potatoes. Not only does this taste great, but it makes for a fancier presentation when you serve dinner to your family and friends. And it’s so easy!

What’s your favorite thing to do with peas? You can’t go wrong eating them steamed or sautéed either, but they make other dishes even better. Do you want to try one of these ideas tonight?