The bright green of fresh peas, the crunch of crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds—that’s what makes a Pea Salad unforgettable. Imagine biting into a bowl full of flavor, as the sweetness of peas meets the zesty tang of dressing, creating a symphony of deliciousness that sings in harmony with every forkful. creamy spaghetti dish.
When I think about Pea Salad, I’m transported back to summer picnics filled with laughter and sunshine. My Aunt Edna would whip up this vibrant dish and serve it alongside her famous potato salad. The aroma wafting through the air was pure magic, promising an explosion of flavors. chicken gyros with tzatziki Whether it’s a barbecue or a potluck, this salad is always the star of the show, and I can guarantee you’ll be going back for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pea Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, even if you’re not a cooking whiz.
- Each bite bursts with flavor from sweet peas and crunchy veggies.
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any meal.
- Perfectly versatile, it pairs well with grilled meats or stands alone as a light lunch.
Ingredients for Pea Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Green Peas: Use sweet garden peas for that delightful burst of flavor; frozen peas work just as well if fresh isn’t available.
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Crisp Celery: Chop finely for that satisfying crunch; choose bright green stalks for maximum freshness.
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Red Onion: Finely diced red onion adds a subtle sharpness; feel free to soak them in cold water first to tame their bite.
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Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds everything together; opt for full-fat mayo for richness or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
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Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon enhances flavors and adds zing; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; you can substitute with plain yogurt if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pea Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing those fresh peas under cold water. If using frozen peas, let them thaw while you chop your veggies.
Step 2: Chop and Dice
Finely chop your celery and red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the peas—this is where the magic starts!
Step 3: Create the Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sour cream until smooth. This creamy concoction will bring all those delightful ingredients together.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the dressing over your pea mixture and give it a good toss. Ensure every pea is coated evenly; nobody likes a dry salad!
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows all those flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your beautiful Pea Salad to serving dishes or enjoy straight from the bowl if you’re feeling cheeky! Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Now dig in! Each bite brings you back to sunny days filled with laughter and good food—a perfect reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Pea Salad!
You Must Know
- This delightful pea salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of spring in every bite.
- Packed with fresh flavors and colors, it transforms any meal into a festive occasion.
- Perfect for barbecues or as a light lunch, you’ll want to make this again and again.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best pea salad, start by blanching the peas in boiling water for just two minutes. Next, shock them in ice water to keep that brilliant green color. While the peas cool, chop your veggies and whisk together the dressing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your pea salad! Swap out cucumbers for bell peppers or add crumbled feta for a tangy twist. You can also toss in some toasted nuts for added crunch or fresh herbs like mint for an aromatic kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pea salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you have leftovers, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or let them come to room temperature before serving again—no reheating necessary!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the freshest flavor, use garden-fresh peas if possible; frozen peas work too but don’t quite compare.
- Be careful not to overcook the peas; they should remain crisp and vibrant.
- Lastly, always taste your dressing before adding it to adjust seasonings as needed.
I remember the first time I made this pea salad at a family picnic. My cousin exclaimed it was “the best thing ever” and wouldn’t stop asking for the recipe! That moment made me realize how simple ingredients could create such joy. hearty breakfast bake.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for a Pea Salad?
To prepare a delicious pea salad, gather fresh or frozen peas, diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. You will also need a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include chopped herbs like mint or parsley for added flavor. These simple yet vibrant ingredients create a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
How can I make my Pea Salad more nutritious?
To enhance the nutrition of your pea salad, consider adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumber. Incorporating quinoa or chickpeas can provide protein and fiber. If you want to boost healthy fats, sprinkle some avocado on top. These modifications will not only improve the flavor but also increase the health benefits of your salad.
Can I prepare Pea Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare pea salad in advance. Mix the ingredients together except for the dressing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the flavors and prevent sogginess. Preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What are some variations of Pea Salad?
There are numerous ways to vary your pea salad recipe. You can add bacon bits for a smoky flavor or use different cheeses like goat cheese instead of feta. A touch of honey or maple syrup in the dressing can add sweetness while nuts such as almonds or walnuts provide crunch. Experimenting with these variations keeps your pea salad exciting and new.
Conclusion for Pea Salad:
In summary, a pea salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that brings freshness to any meal. With simple ingredients like peas, onions, and feta cheese, you can create a delightful side dish that is easy to prepare. Remember to enhance its nutritional value by adding various vegetables or proteins if desired. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and variations to find your perfect pea salad recipe!
Pea Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pea Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the crunch of crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a light lunch option. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that will remind you of sunny picnics and joyful moments shared with loved ones. Easy to prepare and versatile, this Pea Salad will quickly become a staple at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Rinse peas under cold water; if using frozen peas, let them thaw while preparing the other ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rinsed peas, chopped celery, and diced onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature; garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg