May Harvest of the Month

Harvest of the Month is a longstanding program of Jackson In Action. Each month we highlight a different fruit or vegetable and provide fun facts and recipes. Increasing knowledge of different types of produce has been shown to increase fruit and vegetable intake. We encourage you to share the flyer each month at your organization, either electronically or by putting out paper copies.

Current and past Harvest of the Month information can be found on our website: https://www.jacksoninaction.org/harvestofthemonth

May Harvest of the Month – Peas
Harvest of the Month is a national movement that highlights fruit and vegetable choices, encouraging
community members to try new items and recipes each month. Increasing knowledge of different types
of produce can increase fruit and vegetable intake! Harvest of the Month is a long-standing program of
the Jackson in Action healthy living coalition. Find more healthy eating ideas at
www.JacksonInAction.org/recipes.
The Harvest of the Month for May is peas! Fresh sweet peas grown in Wisconsin are available in June
and July. Wisconsin ranks third in the nation for the processing of peas. Peas are part of the legume
family! Legumes produce pods that enclose fleshy, edible seeds. Peas are seeds! Peas are easy to grow.
Farmers and gardeners enjoy growing pea plants because they are low-maintenance and provide a
nutritious and versatile food.
Did you know? Peas have been found in historical sites that are nearly 10,000 years old. Peas are
thought to have originated from either Thailand and Myanmar, the Middle East, or Ethiopia. The peas
our ancestors feasted on were very different from the peas we eat today. They were known as field peas
and were much tougher and very starchy.
Peas are a good source of fiber, folate, and Vitamin C. Fiber helps keep digestion running smoothly.
Folate helps prevent birth defects, is needed to make DNA, and helps your cells divide, including red
blood cells. Vitamin C helps wounds heal, is important for the immune system, and is an antioxidant
which protects cells from damage. Peas also contain lots of thiamin, or vitamin B1 which helps keep the
body's nerves and nervous system healthy.
When buying peas, look for them in the pod. Fresh pea pods should be firm, bright green, and look like
they are almost bursting. Store fresh peas in the refrigerator in an open plastic bag. Shell the peas just
before using. To remove the shell, rinse and then pull the string down the length of the pod. Push the
peas with your thumb.
Looking for an easy snack recipe? Combine a bag of peas (frozen or fresh) with olive oil and shredded
parmesan in a bowl. Spread the peas in a single layer on a baking tray. Cook in a 350-degree oven for 20-
30 minutes but take the tray out ever 5-10 minutes to shake. Remove once the peas start to turn brown
and allow to cool. Enjoy!