Black-eyed peas or black-eyed beans get their names from their characteristic appearance.

They are cream-colored, medium-sized legumes with a small black dot resembling an eye.

Like most beans,black-eyed peas are loaded with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, folate and iron.They are especially rich sources of potassium. This mineral is important for the proper function of all cells, tissues and organs in the body.

Cooked black-eyed peas can be used cold in salads, in soups and stews. They can also be served as a side dish.