You can use fresh shelled peas, frozen peas, or even shell them yourself if you can find them in season. If you use frozen peas, be sure to thaw them out before using them in this recipe. The peas should be used raw, not cooked.

In the bowl of a Cuisinart or other food processor, combine the peas, avocado, pepitas, lemon juice, cilantro, salt and pepper. Pulse in the food processor until it starts to turn into a smooth paste.

Remove the lid and scrape the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to catch any loose ingredients that are sticking to the bowl and not mixing in.

At this point, add a splash (or more) of water if you think you need to smooth it out a little more. You can actually enjoy this dip chunky or smooth, it’s up to you!

Remove the top of the food processor and continue blending until it is the desired smoothness.

Add optional nutritional yeast for enhanced flavor and nutrition and mix in.

Serve with vegetable sticks, endive leaves, or your favorite dipping cracker. Spread on toast for a great breakfast or use as a substitute for mayonnaise on your sandwich.