Roasted Snacking Peas

I am a snacker. My favorite meals consist of variety – an abundance of appetizers, a plentiful cheese plate – and when I’m writing I am a nearly compulsive snacker. I’ve been working away on a project behind the scenes, and have been needing a whole lot more snacks. At a fancy grocery store I bought a back of roasted peas, crunchy and covered in herbs. I thought I might try to make my own version. One with my favorite flavors and not so rock hard they threaten your fillings.

Roasted Snacking Peas

1 small bag frozen peas

3 T olive oil

3 T balsamic vinegar

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp garlic powder

Defrost the peas in the microwave, then toss with the rest of the ingredients. Spread out on a parchment lined cookie sheet until the peas lie just one layer deep. Back at 325 for about an hour, or until chewy.

There is a thin line between done and burnt, so when in doubt turn the heat down and err towards the chewy end. I really prefer them chewy – like little drops of savory fruit leather – over the peas you buy at the store that are like little green pebbles. This is a great opportunity to use any flavored oils or vinegars since the roasting concentrates the flavors even more. I used a basil infused olive oil, but if you’re using a regular one I’d add some dried herbs to up the flavor.

You could add any of your favorite flavorings to make your own healthy snack. I’m thinking a lemon pepper version will be next. This should keep me happily writing until my project is finished.