Green Peas vs Sweet Peas: What’s the Difference?

Last Updated on August 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

When people think about peas, the first thing that comes to mind is typically the green variety. However, sweet peas have been gaining more attention lately.

So between green peas vs sweet peas, which one is better? Let’s look at both types closely and see what sets them apart.

What’s the Difference Between Sweet Peas & Green Peas?

When it comes to taste, sweet peas are definitely sweeter than green peas. This is because they contain more sugar.

On the other hand, green peas are more starchy and have a savory flavor.

As for nutrition, both types of peas are good sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, sweet peas have more antioxidants than green peas.

Let’s Take A Closer Look

Growth Habits

Both green peas and sweet peas are members of the legume family, which means they share some common growth habits. [1]

For example, both plants have tendrils that they use to climb, and both produce pods that contain seeds.

Green peas and sweet peas provide gardeners with different options for adding color and interest to their gardens.

Pod & Seeds

Though they are both technically peas, green peas and sweet peas differ in a few key ways. For one, green peas are typically grown for their pods and seeds, while sweet peas are grown for their flowers. 

This means that green peas are generally harvested earlier than sweet peas. Additionally, green peas have a more starchy flavor, while sweet peas are sweeter and more delicate. 

Flowers

Sweet peas and green peas may look similar, but they are two different types of plants. Sweet peas are a type of flowering plant that is often grown for ornamental purposes. 

Green peas, on the other hand, are a type of legume that is typically eaten as a vegetable. While sweet peas have large, showy flowers, green peas have small flowers that are not as noticeable. 

Green peas are also much smaller than sweet peas and have a more muted color.

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Best Way To Eat Them

Green peas are the kind that most people are familiar with – they are small, round, and have a slightly starchy taste. 

On the other hand, sweet peas are much larger and have a sweeter flavor. Both types of peas can be eaten raw or cooked, but green peas are generally best when cooked, while sweet peas are best eaten raw. 

When it comes to nutritional value, green peas contain more vitamins and minerals than sweet peas. However, sweet peas have more fiber and protein.

FAQs

Are green peas the same as garden peas?

No, green peas and garden peas are not the same. Green peas are a type of legume typically eaten as a vegetable, while garden peas are a type of pea grown for its seeds. Garden peas are also known as English peas or snow peas.

Are sweet peas poisonous?

No, sweet peas are not poisonous. They are a type of flowering plant that is often grown for ornamental purposes.

What is the difference between a green pea and a yellow pea?

The main difference between green and yellow pea is their color. Green peas are, well, green, while yellow peas are yellow. Yellow peas are also sometimes called yellow split peas. 

Green peas and yellow peas have a similar flavor and can be used interchangeably in recipes. However, green peas are more nutritious than yellow peas.

Can you eat green peas & sweet peas raw?

Yes, you can eat green peas and sweet peas raw. However, green peas are generally best when cooked, while sweet peas are best eaten raw. This is because cooked green peas have a more starchy flavor, while raw sweet peas are sweeter and more delicate.

Final Thoughts

If you like sweet foods, then sweet peas are probably the way to go. But if you prefer savory flavors, green peas might be better for you. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of pea you like best!

Do you have a preference between green peas and sweet peas? Let us know in the comments below!

Reference:

1. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/legumes-pulses/