Peas and Carrots

M.O. asks, "Miss Kitty,

Those who know me in my public life know that I have never maligned a carrot in any way, shape or form. As a person exercising individual choice, I merely happen to prefer to consume peas. Why is it, then, that I am constantly assaulted on a daily basis by groupings of peas and carrot pieces mixed together? Is it the colors? Is it some sort of socialist propoganda? Is it an attempt by the failing carrot industry to take over the world?

M. O."

Dude, I want to live where you're living so I can be assaulted by vegetables on a daily basis. I would love that. No more of that silly "going to grocery stores" business; I could just walk down the street and be bombarded with dinner. That would rock!

If it turns out, though, that you are exercising your right to hyperbole (which is actually in the Constitution, right after life and liberty, but before the pursuit of happiness) and you're not pelted with veggies as you walk down the street but are instead talking about the selection in your local grocery store, I have one very simple solution for you.

Shop somewhere else.

I know that my local Trader Joe's and my local Whole Foods both have packages of peas, and packages of carrots that you can buy separately. And I have. On many occasions. At farmer's markets, peas and carrots are usually on separate tables, so you could try that, too.

It is true that peas and carrots look good together - orange and green are lovely complimentary colors. There is also the texture factor - peas are small and kind of squishy and are therefore nicely complimented by a larger, firmer, crunchier vegetable like a carrot. And don't forget Forrest Gump's influence on the popularity of the vegetables. That movie won Oscars, you know.

If you want to get Freudian about it, think about one carrot with two peas. Yes, the male ego has penetrated every aspect of our society.

Peas and carrots also contain lots of vitamins and minerals in common, so you can reach your RDA without overdosing on green things - it's good to have variety in your diet. But I can understand the desire for just peas. When I make mac 'n cheese, I don't want to add peas and carrots, just peas. It is important to be able to purchase them separately and plenty of locations will offer you that choice.

Or perhaps you'd rather try these?

Thank you, M.O. for your question. Keep 'em coming, guys! askmisskittyanything@gmail.com