Baby Green Peas With Orange and Almond

👶🌱🍊🌰 Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond 🍽️

What is it?
Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of baby green peas with the zesty and citrusy flavor of oranges, topped with the crunch of toasted almonds. It’s a vibrant and refreshing side dish or salad that pairs well with various main courses.

History:
The exact origin of this specific dish is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a creative way to combine fresh, seasonal ingredients. Peas, oranges, and almonds have been enjoyed in various culinary traditions for centuries, making this a modern fusion of flavors and textures.

Components:

1. Baby Green Peas: Fresh or frozen baby green peas are the star ingredient, providing a sweet and vibrant green color.
2. Oranges: You’ll need fresh oranges to extract their juice and zest, infusing the dish with a citrusy punch.
3. Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds are lightly toasted to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a crunchy contrast.
4. Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds a smooth and savory element to the dish.
5. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and potentially a touch of honey or sugar can be used to balance and enhance the flavors.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Peas:

   • If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes and then transfer them to an ice bath to preserve their vibrant green color. If using frozen peas, thaw them.

2. Prepare the Oranges:

   • Zest one or more oranges to get the flavorful outer layer. Then, squeeze the oranges to extract their juice.

3. Toast Almonds:

   • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced or slivered almonds until they turn golden brown. Be sure to watch them closely, as they can burn quickly.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the baby green peas, orange juice, orange zest, and toasted almonds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Optionally, add a touch of honey or sugar for sweetness if desired.

5. Toss and Serve:

   • Gently toss all the ingredients together to coat the peas evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the peas’ texture and the almonds’ crunch.

6. Chill and Serve:

   • You can serve this dish immediately while it’s still slightly warm, or refrigerate it for a bit to let the flavors meld together. It’s delicious both ways!

Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond can vary, but it typically takes around 15-20 minutes. This depends on factors like whether you’re using fresh or frozen peas and how quickly you can zest and juice the oranges. The toasting of almonds takes just a few minutes. Enjoy this colorful and healthy dish as a side, or customize it to your liking with additional ingredients such as fresh herbs, feta cheese, or a splash of balsamic vinegar. 🍽️🍊🌱👶

🌱🍊🌰 Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond Nutrition and Health Information 🍽️

Nutrition Facts:
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond, considering a side dish portion:

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per serving.
• Protein: 5-8 grams.
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams.
• Dietary Fiber: 4-6 grams.
• Sugars: Around 6-8 grams, primarily from the natural sugars in peas and oranges.
• Fat: 7-10 grams, mainly from the almonds and olive oil.
• Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C from the oranges and vitamin K from the peas. It also provides essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and folate.

Health Information:
Baby Green Peas with Orange and Almond offers several health benefits:

1. Nutrient-Rich: This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and vitamin K, essential for bone health.

2. Fiber Content: The peas and almonds provide dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full and satisfied.

3. Heart-Healthy: The use of olive oil and almonds adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

4. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is low in saturated fats, which is a positive aspect for heart health.

5. Antioxidants: Oranges are a great source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

6. Protein: While not a high-protein dish, it does contain a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle health and overall bodily functions.

7. Low in Sodium: When prepared without excessive added salt, this dish is naturally low in sodium, which is beneficial for those watching their salt intake.

8. Hydration: Oranges contribute to hydration due to their high water content.

Please note that specific nutritional values may vary based on the portion size, specific ingredients used, and any additional seasonings or flavorings. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.