It's early summer here in the UK.  Late spring in Lancashire usually means slightly milder rainy weather and a burst of green colour.  Peas, asparagus, (speaking of pee ; ), kale, chard, chives, spinach, lettuce and, well, everything green are in season 'oop north' this time of year.   Green isn't simply a gorgeous colour; it's also a lifeline! Nothing gets us happier than seeing green, especially after a long winter without fresh local vegetables! Calcium, iron, fibre, protein, and a barrow full of antioxidants are all found in our favourite locally grown greens.

The Month of May is when we should be celebrating the rebirth of the earth. If you've ever experienced a long, drizzly dull winter (haven't we all!), you know that spring is a time to rejoice. Outside my windows, the birds can't quit singing about it!

I recently sowed a large number of seeds, including peas. Peas, unlike most own grown springtime veg, are legumes and, like their cousin beans, they have a lot of nutritional value.

What makes peas such a force to be reckoned with? As well as being super tasty and an easy veg to get the kids to eat they're vibrantly coloured and high in nutrients. Protein, fibre, iron, and antioxidants are all abundant in them. Peas are high in Vitamin A, which is good for your eyes, skin, hair, and teeth whilst also reducing inflammation in your body.

For those of you getting ready for your beach body (no carbs before Marbs ; ), peas are almost fat-free, and the fat they do have is in the form of omega 3-fatty acids, which are bangin' for your heart.

A common misconception is that peas are commonly regarded as a starchy vegetable when in fact they aren't. They're low on the glycemic index, which, for those of you without a degree in human nutrition (like me), basically means they won't cause a blood sugar increase. In fact, because of their high fibre content, they can actually help you control your blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes, Win-Win!

So get yourselves into your back yard or allotment and give peas a chance, next year and the year(s) after you will be rewarded with a nutritious and tasty superfood growing in your garden.

For those of you who don't have time (or a garden) to grow some peas don't worry, we have you covered.  Our development chefs Nathan and Lyndon having been working hard in our development kitchen coming up with loads of recipes which showcase the very best that peas have to offer.  Check out our range of vegan ready meals to tick off at least two of your five a day and make sure you are getting the very best in plant based nutrition on the days when you don't have the time, or energy to cook.

Peas Out! ✌️🫛