Safeway Inc.
Safeway Sugar Snap Peas
What it is
These are fresh, whole sugar snap peas, a variety of garden pea known for their edible pods. The pods are sweet and crisp, with small, tender peas inside. They are harvested at a young stage, which allows the entire pod to be eaten, unlike shelling peas. This makes them a convenient and versatile vegetable for many dishes. They are typically sold in bags or containers, ready for immediate use.
How people cook with it
Sugar snap peas are a popular choice for adding a fresh, crunchy element to meals. They can be enjoyed raw or lightly cooked.
- Added to stir-fries
- Steamed as a side dish
- Tossed into salads
- Blanched for pasta
To prepare sugar snap peas, begin by rinsing them under cool water. Trim off the tough stem end and remove the string that runs along the seam of the pod, if present. For a quick and easy side, steam them for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. They can also be added directly to stir-fries during the last few minutes of cooking to retain their crunch. For salads, blanching them briefly in boiling water followed by an ice bath will preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture.
How it differs from similar foods
Sugar snap peas are distinct from snow peas and shelling peas. Snow peas have flat pods with very small peas, while shelling peas require the peas to be removed from the pod before eating. Sugar snap peas offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness in their entire pod, making them a unique and enjoyable vegetable.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a quick, fresh, and flavorful vegetable to incorporate into their meals.
How to keep the rest
To keep leftover sugar snap peas fresh, store them unwashed in a perforated plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This allows for air circulation and helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. They are best consumed within a few days of purchase for optimal flavor and texture.