If you're looking for a nutritious and hassle-free side dish, 1 cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can be a good option. This serving size contains 119 calories, making it a great addition to any meal plan.
Aside from being low in calories, peas and carrots are also good sources of dietary fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and K. A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can provide about 8 grams of fiber, 7 grams of protein, and 28 grams of carbohydrates.
In this article, we'll explore various aspects of peas and carrots, such as their nutritional benefits, comparison between canned and fresh options, ways to incorporate them into your diet, and storage tips for canned vegetables.
Calories in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
As mentioned earlier, 1 cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods contain 119 calories. Although this serving size is not too high in calories, it's still important to be mindful of your overall calorie intake if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. One tip to make this dish even lighter in calories is to opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned goods. This way, you can control the amount of sodium in your diet, which can be important for people with high blood pressure. Overall, cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can be a great addition to your diet without compromising taste or nutrition.
Carbohydrates in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can provide about 28 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are essential macronutrients that serve as the primary fuel source for our bodies. If you're watching your carbohydrate intake, it's important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal. Peas and carrots are complex carbohydrates that are slower to digest, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling fuller for longer. In addition, peas and carrots from canned goods are convenient sources of carbohydrates that can be easily incorporated into various dishes. You can add them to soups, stews, casseroles, or even salads.
Protein in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can provide about 7 grams of protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient that is needed for the growth, repair, and maintenance of various tissues in our body. Vegetables are not commonly considered as significant sources of protein, but peas and carrots can still contribute to your overall protein intake. Moreover, plant-based proteins like peas and carrots are generally lower in fat and calories than animal-based proteins. Thus, cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can be a healthy alternative for people who want to limit their meat consumption or those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Fat in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods contains less than 1 gram of fat. This makes it a low-fat food option that can still provide essential nutrients. Although fat is an essential macronutrient that our body needs for various functions, it's important to be mindful of the type and amount of fat in our diet. Peas and carrots from canned goods are naturally low in fat, but be mindful of added fats if you're using them in recipes that require cooking or dressing. Overall, cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can be a great addition to a low-fat diet that's still rich in essential nutrients.
Fiber in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can provide about 8 grams of fiber. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that cannot be digested by our body, but it's essential for various functions such as promoting bowel regularity, controlling blood sugar levels, and reducing cholesterol. Peas and carrots are good sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which means they can help regulate various aspects of our digestive and metabolic health. Moreover, fiber-rich foods like peas and carrots are generally more filling than low-fiber foods, which can help prevent overeating. Despite the importance of fiber, most people don't consume enough of it. Adding cooked peas and carrots from canned goods to your diet can be a simple and tasty way to increase your fiber intake.
Vitamins and Minerals in 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
Peas and carrots are good sources of various vitamins and minerals that are essential for our health. A cup of cooked peas and carrots from canned goods can provide about 200% of the daily value of vitamin A, 20% of the daily value of vitamin C, and 10% of the daily value of vitamin K. In addition, peas and carrots are good sources of other micronutrients like folate, potassium, and manganese. These vitamins and minerals serve various functions in our body, such as promoting vision, immune function, bone health, and blood pressure regulation. Thus, adding cooked peas and carrots from canned goods to your diet can be an easy way to boost your vitamin and mineral intake. Be sure to choose canned goods that have minimal processing and additives to ensure maximum nutrient retention.
Benefits of Peas and Carrots
Peas and carrots are not just nutritious, but they also offer various health benefits. Here are some potential benefits of including peas and carrots in your diet: - Peas and carrots are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. - Peas and carrots are good sources of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health, prevent constipation, and reduce the risk of various diseases.
Ways to Incorporate Peas and Carrots in your Diet
Cooked peas and carrots from canned goods are versatile ingredients that can be used in various dishes. Here are some ways to incorporate them in your diet: - Add peas and carrots to your favorite soup or stew to add color, flavor, and nutrition. - Make a salad with canned peas and carrots, mixed greens, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing and light meal.
Comparison of Canned and Fresh Peas and Carrots
Although canned peas and carrots are convenient and readily available, they might not be the best option for everyone. Here are some factors to consider when comparing canned and fresh options: - Nutrient content: Canned peas and carrots are generally processed and preserved, which can affect their nutrient content. Fresh peas and carrots, on the other hand, are typically harvested and prepared closer to their peak ripeness, retaining more of their vitamins and minerals. - Sodium content: Canned peas and carrots are often seasoned with salt to enhance their flavor and preservation. If you're watching your sodium intake, fresh peas and carrots might be a better option. You can also opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned goods to reduce your sodium intake.
Storage Tips for Canned Vegetables
Canned vegetables like peas and carrots can be stored for a long time, but it's important to store them properly to avoid spoilage and contamination. Here are some storage tips for canned vegetables: - Store canned goods in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. - Once opened, transfer the contents of the can to a clean container with a tight-fitting lid, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Peas and carrots are not just nutritious, but they also offer various health benefits.
FAQs About 1 Cup Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Canned)
1. How many servings does 1 cup of cooked peas and carrots make?
One cup of cooked peas and carrots makes approximately one serving.
2. What nutrients are in 1 cup of cooked peas and carrots?
One cup of cooked peas and carrots provides a good amount of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It also contains small amounts of iron and calcium.
3. Is canned peas and carrots a healthy option?
Canned peas and carrots are a convenient option, but they can be high in sodium. Be sure to look for low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties. Also, fresh or frozen peas and carrots may be a healthier option as they do not contain added preservatives.
4. How can I use canned peas and carrots in recipes?
Canned peas and carrots can be used in a variety of recipes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. They can also be added to salads or served as a side dish.
5. Can I freeze cooked peas and carrots?
Yes, cooked peas and carrots can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.