Are you looking for a healthy and low-calorie side dish? Look no further than 1 oz of cooked peas and carrots, made from frozen vegetables without added fat during cooking. These little veggies are packed with nutrients to help you reach your health goals, and they're easy to prepare too!

Peas and carrots contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. They also provide fiber to support digestion and reduce cholesterol levels.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of adding peas and carrots to your diet and share some tips for incorporating them into your meals and snacks.

Calories and Fat Content

As mentioned, 1 oz of cooked peas and carrots contains just 14 calories and no added fat. This makes it a great option for those following a low-calorie diet. One serving also provides less than 1 gram of protein and less than 1 gram of sugar. While it may not be the most nutrient-dense food, it can still provide a variety of vitamins and minerals to your diet.

Vitamins and Minerals

Peas and carrots offer several key vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. One serving of this dish contains about 3% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C, 10% of vitamin K, and 3% of folate. Additionally, they provide small amounts of vitamin E, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6. The carrots in this dish are also rich in beta carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body.

Frozen vs. Fresh Vegetables

While fresh vegetables are often touted as the best option for nutrition, frozen vegetables can be just as healthy. In fact, frozen peas and carrots may even be more nutritious than fresh ones if they are frozen immediately after harvest. Frozen vegetables are also more convenient since they can be stored in the freezer for longer periods without spoiling. This makes them a great option to have on hand for quick and easy meal prep.

Easy and Healthy Side Dish

Looking for a healthy and easy side dish to serve with your meals? Peas and carrots are a great option. They can be cooked quickly on the stove or in the microwave, and they pair well with a variety of main dishes. To add some extra flavor, try seasoning them with herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Low-Calorie Options

If you're looking to keep your calorie intake low, there are several ways to use peas and carrots in your meals. You can serve them as a side dish with lean protein like grilled chicken or fish, or you can add them to soups and stews for a filling and nutritious meal. Try adding them to a stir-fry with other vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful dish.

High Fiber Vegetables

Both peas and carrots are high in fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Fiber can also help you feel full and satisfied after meals, making it a great option for weight loss. To maximize the fiber content, be sure to eat the skin on the carrots and choose whole peas or split peas over processed products.

Weight Loss Food Options

If you're trying to lose weight, incorporating plenty of vegetables like peas and carrots into your diet can help. Not only are they low in calories, but they also provide fiber and nutrients to support your weight loss goals. Try adding them to salads, omelets, or as a side dish to round out your meals.

Nutrition for a Balanced Diet

While peas and carrots may not be the most nutrient-dense food out there, they can still provide valuable vitamins and minerals to your diet. Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals can help ensure that you're getting all the nutrients your body needs for optimal health.

Quick and Easy Meal Prep

Peas and carrots are a great option for quick and easy meal prep. You can cook a large batch at once and store them in the fridge or freezer to use throughout the week. Try adding them to breakfast omelets, lunchtime salads, or dinner stir-fries for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Healthy Snack Ideas

If you're looking for a healthy snack option, try snacking on raw carrots or sugar snap peas. Both are low in calories and provide fiber to keep you feeling full between meals. Alternatively, you can roast carrots and peas in the oven for a tasty and satisfying snack. Try sprinkling them with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cumin for added flavor.