Seasons/Availability
Yellow Pea shoots are available year-round.
Nutritional Value
Yellow Pea shoots are a good source of nutrition, providing vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and fiber. They are also low in calories.
Applications
Yellow Pea shoots can be used raw or cooked and make an excellent addition to salads, stir-fries, soups, and sandwiches. The shoots can be added near the end of cooking to maintain their bright yellow hue and crunchy texture. Yellow pea shoots may also be sautéed with olive oil and garlic for a simple side dish or blanched in boiling water as a colorful vegetable accompaniment for seafood dishes such as sushi rolls. Young leaves can also be blended into pestos or blended into smoothies for added nutrition. Additionally, the shoots can be used as a decorative garnish for platters and entrees. Since they are delicate, pea shoots should be stored in a plastic bag or wrapped in damp paper towels to maintain their freshness. They will keep 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Yellow Pea shoots may also be frozen for extended storage of up to 6 months. The shoots have a mild flavor that pairs well with vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peppers, mushrooms, onions, garlic, ginger and sesame oil. Other ingredients that pair deliciously with yellow pea shoots include citrus fruits such as lemon and lime juice or zest, honey, balsamic vinegar and soy sauce.
When preparing yellow pea shoots, it is important to rinse them thoroughly before use to remove any dirt or debris. If desired, the stems can be trimmed prior to cooking. As with all vegetables, it is important to not overcook Yellow Pea Shoots as they will become mushy and lose their vibrant color and flavor.