Like beans, peas are divided into two categories: those with, and those without edible pods. The peas varieties that we know as the green pea, English pea, and garden pea fall into the latter category. English peas, also known as garden or green peas, grow in a fat green pod that encases the peas. Peas have a tender yet slightly crunchy texture and a sweet flavor!

Snap peas: Snap peas resemble smaller versions of green pea pods. The difference is that these pods are edible! Sugar snap and sugar daddy are the two varieties of sugar snap peas - sugar daddy peas are a cross between the green pea & the snow pea, and they are also string-less. However, even sugar snaps that do have strings do not necessarily need to be stringed before cooking.

Snow peas: Snow peas have green pods that are flat and wide, and are also edible. There are often strings, but again, they need not be removed before preparing. Snow peas are also commonly known as sugar peas, China peas, and in French mangetout, meaning “eat all.” All varieties of peas are rich in vitamin A and vitamin B (particularly folic acid), calcium, iron, zinc, and potassium. In addition, they contain protein and fiber as well as lutein which has been shown to promote healthy vision.