Sugar Pea Pods

They are later than they were last year, but we finally have Oregon sugar pods from our garden. Last year we planted sugar peas and sugar pods but we definitely like the pods best. Why? No shelling--enough said!

We are a little relieved because a couple of weeks ago it looked like we might not have a harvest at all. The vines were ranging between 3 and 6 inches tall with no blooms. They were a bit spotty so we didn't have as many vines as usual because of the drought.

One mistake we probably made was in not mulching the peas. Mulching is always a good idea, especially in a year where warmer than normal temps and partial drought is a problem.

Now, as you can see, they are making up for lost time.

To prepare the peas ...

Actually there is no real preparation required, unless you want to cook them. Some of the larger pods may need stringing but they are sweetly delicious just like they are. You can eat them straight off the vines. I think it is a good idea to wash them but it is a real treat to have them this way.

You can also serve them on a vegetable tray with a veggie dip. I usually use ranch dressing.

We also love to add them to a tossed salad. They are SO crunchy and sweet in a salad.

You can also cook them in a microwave, a serving at a time. Just add a little water and microwave for a couple of minutes until done, then add salt, pepper and a touch of butter.

Then you can saute them. Put a tablespoon of olive oil in a saute pan, brown a chopped up green onion and add the pods and stir for a few minutes. It won't take long since they are very good with minimal cooking.

I know we will really enjoy them because they are the perfect taste of spring!