Looking for a low calorie vegetable dish that's easy and convenient? Frozen peas and carrots may be just what you need, with only 19 calories per 1 oz serving.
But don't let their small size fool you - peas and carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals. A single serving contains 10% of your daily vitamin C needs, 4% of your iron, and 2% of your calcium. Plus, they make a great addition to any meal or snack.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of peas and carrots, how to cook them, and some ideas for incorporating them into your diet.
Calories in 1 Oz Cooked Peas and Carrots
As mentioned in the introduction, 1 oz of cooked peas and carrots from frozen only contains 19 calories. This makes them an ideal food for weight loss or maintaining a healthy diet.
Vitamins and Minerals in Cooked Peas and Carrots
In addition to being low in calories, peas and carrots are also rich in vitamins and minerals. A serving of 1 oz cooked peas and carrots contains:
- 10% of your daily vitamin C needs
- 4% of your iron
- 2% of your calcium
- 4% of your daily vitamin A needs
- 2% of your daily fiber needs
Health Benefits of Peas and Carrots
Peas and carrots are not only low in calories, but also come packed with a wide range of potential health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals
- May help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels
- Can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut microbiome
- May improve heart health and reduce the risk of certain diseases
Frozen vs. Fresh Vegetables
Many people wonder if there is a difference between frozen and fresh vegetables, and which one is better for you. While fresh vegetables are generally considered to be healthier, frozen vegetables can also be a healthy and convenient option. In fact, frozen vegetables are often just as healthy, if not more so, than fresh vegetables. This is because they are picked at the peak of ripeness and snap frozen, which preserves their nutrients. On the other hand, fresh vegetables can lose nutrients during transportation and storage.
How to Cook Frozen Peas and Carrots
Cooking frozen peas and carrots is simple and easy, and can be done in just a few minutes. Here's how to do it:
- Place desired amount of peas and carrots in a microwave-safe dish
- Add a small amount of water
- Cover with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid
- Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through
- Season with salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired
Recipes with Peas and Carrots
Looking for inspiration on how to use frozen peas and carrots in your meals? Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Peas and Carrots Stir Fry
- Peas and Carrots Soup
- Vegetable Fried Rice
- Shepherd's Pie
With a little imagination, the possibilities are endless!
Peas and Carrots for Weight Loss
If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, peas and carrots can be a great addition to your diet. Not only are they low in calories, but they are also high in fiber and protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. Try adding them to soups, salads, or stir fries for a filling and nutritious meal.
How to Incorporate More Vegetables into Your Diet
Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, but it can be tough to know how to get enough of them. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate more vegetables into your meals:
- Add frozen peas and carrots to your favorite soup or stew recipe
- Toss them into a salad for a colorful and nutritious addition
- Serve them as a side dish alongside your favorite protein
- Blend them into a smoothie for a quick and easy breakfast
With a little creativity, it's easy to get your daily dose of veggies.
Peas and Carrots for Eye Health
Carrots are well-known for their eye health benefits, but did you know that peas can also be good for your eyes? Both peas and carrots contain nutrients that can help protect against age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. Plus, the vitamin A in carrots can help improve night vision.
The Best Time to Eat Peas and Carrots
There really isn't a 'best' time to eat peas and carrots - they are a healthy addition to any meal or snack. However, if you're trying to maximize their nutritional benefits, it's a good idea to eat them alongside a source of healthy fat, like avocado or olive oil. This can help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins in the vegetables, like vitamin A.
5 FAQ About 1 Oz Cooked Peas and Carrots (from Frozen)
1. What is the serving size of 1 oz cooked peas and carrots?
The serving size of 1 oz cooked peas and carrots is 1 oz.
2. How many calories are in 1 oz cooked peas and carrots?
There are 19 calories in 1 oz cooked peas and carrots.
3. Are frozen peas and carrots healthier than fresh?
Frozen peas and carrots are just as healthy as fresh vegetables because they are typically frozen shortly after being picked, which preserves their nutrients.
4. Can 1 oz cooked peas and carrots help with weight loss?
1 oz cooked peas and carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help with weight loss by keeping you feeling full for longer periods of time.
5. What are some ways to use 1 oz cooked peas and carrots in a meal?
1 oz cooked peas and carrots can be used in soups, stews, casseroles, and stir-fries, or as a side dish to accompany meat dishes.