9 Health Benefits of Snap Peas, Description, and Side Effects

Snap peas and snow peas are both types of edible podded peas, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between snap peas and snow peas:

Snap Peas: (Pisum sativum var. Macrocarpon)

1. Pod Texture: Snap pea pods are plump and contain full-size peas inside. The pods are thicker and have a crisp texture, making them “snappable” when bent.
2. Peas Inside: Inside the snap pea pods, you’ll find fully developed peas. These peas are often sweet and tender.
3. Cooking: Snap peas are commonly cooked, and they retain their crispness when cooked briefly. They are suitable for stir-fries, sautés, and other cooked dishes.
4. Usage: Snap peas are often enjoyed both raw and cooked. They can be used in salads, added to pasta dishes, or served as a side dish.

Snow Peas (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum)

1. Pod Texture: Snow pea pods are flatter and thinner than snap pea pods. They are also edible, but they are delicate and often slightly translucent.
2. Peas Inside: Snow pea pods contain smaller, underdeveloped peas. The peas are less prominent and often less sweet than those in snap peas.
3. Cooking: Snow peas are commonly used in Asian cuisine and are often stir-fried or briefly blanched. They are delicate and cook quickly.
4. Usage: Snow peas are often enjoyed in stir-fries and other Asian dishes. Their subtle flavor and crisp texture make them a popular addition to dishes with other vegetables and proteins.

The main differences between snap peas and snow peas lie in their pod texture, the size of the peas inside, and their culinary uses. While snap peas are known for their plump pods with full-size peas inside, snow peas have flatter pods with smaller peas. Both types of peas are nutritious and versatile, offering unique textures and flavors to various dishes.

Although snap peas and snow peas came from the same plant family, they are slightly similar but both are called “Sitsaro” in Tagalog.

Snap peas, also known as sugar snap peas, are a nutritious vegetable that provide a good balance of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for snap peas per 100 grams:

• Calories: 42 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7.6 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2.6 g
  • Sugars: 4.0 g
• Protein: 2.8 g
• Fat: 0.2 g
• Vitamin C: 58 mg (97% of the Daily Value, DV)
• Vitamin A: 1084 IU (22% DV)
• Vitamin K: 43.5 mcg (54% DV)
• Folate: 65 mcg (16% DV)
• Potassium: 250 mg (7% DV)
• Iron: 1.2 mg (7% DV)

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as growing conditions, freshness, and preparation methods. Snap peas are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable that can be enjoyed as a snack, added to salads, stir-fries, or various other dishes.

Snap peas offer a range of health benefits due to their nutritional content and various bioactive compounds. Here are some of the key health benefits of including snap peas in your diet:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Snap peas are a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins C, A, and K, which support immune function, vision, and blood clotting, respectively. They also provide folate, iron, and potassium, which are important for overall health.
2. Antioxidant Properties: Snap peas contain antioxidants such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
3. Dietary Fiber: With a decent amount of dietary fiber, snap peas can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut. Fiber helps prevent constipation, supports regular bowel movements, and can contribute to satiety, assisting in weight management.
4. Bone Health: The vitamin K content in snap peas is beneficial for bone health as it helps regulate calcium absorption and plays a role in bone mineralization. Adequate vitamin K intake is linked to a lower risk of fractures and improved bone density.
5. Eye Health: The combination of vitamin A and lutein in snap peas supports eye health. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, while lutein is a carotenoid that may help protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
6. Heart Health: The low calorie and low-fat content of snap peas makes them a heart-healthy snack. Their potassium content contributes to healthy blood pressure levels, and the fiber and antioxidants in snap peas can contribute to cardiovascular health.
7. Weight Management: Snap peas are relatively low in calories and provide dietary fiber, making them a satisfying and nutritious option for those looking to manage their weight. The fiber content helps control appetite and prevents overeating.
8. Blood Sugar Control: The dietary fiber in snap peas can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
9. Cancer Prevention: The antioxidants and phytonutrients found in snap peas, such as quercetin, may have potential anti-cancer properties. These compounds help protect cells from damage and may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

It’s important to note that while snap peas offer these potential health benefits, they are best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Incorporating snap peas into meals and snacks can contribute to an overall healthy lifestyle.

Snap peas are versatile and can be cooked in various ways to preserve their crisp texture and fresh flavor. Here are a few common methods for cooking snap peas:

1. Blanching and Shocking:
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil.
   • Add snap peas and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they turn bright green.
   • Quickly remove the snap peas from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
   • Drain the snap peas and use them in salads, stir-fries, or as a side dish.
2. Stir-Frying:
   • Heat a bit of oil (like vegetable or sesame oil) in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Add snap peas and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they become tender-crisp.
   • You can add minced garlic, ginger, or other vegetables for extra flavor.
   • Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, or your preferred seasonings.
3. Sautéing:
   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add snap peas and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crunchy.
   • You can add herbs, lemon zest, or a touch of butter for extra flavor.
4. Steaming:
   • Place snap peas in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
   • Steam for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but retain their bright color.
   • Toss with a little olive oil, lemon juice, and salt before serving.
5. Roasting:
   • Preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C).
   • Toss snap peas with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
   • Roast for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until they are slightly browned and tender.
6. Raw in Salads:
   • Snap peas can be enjoyed raw in salads for a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
   • Wash and trim the ends of the snap peas before adding them to your salad.

Remember that snap peas cook quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. The goal is to preserve their vibrant color and crispness while enhancing their flavor through cooking. Feel free to experiment with different cooking methods and seasonings to find your favorite way to enjoy snap peas.