Pea Salad
Pea salad is a delightful dish that showcases the sweet crunch of fresh peas. Perfect for warm weather, this salad combines bright flavors and textures, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. With its simplicity and vibrant color, this dish is not only pleasing to the eye but also wonderfully nutritious. Let’s dive into the ingredients and discover how to make this colorful salad that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and there is no cooking time involved.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 180 calories, 10g of protein, 12g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fat, making it a healthy choice for a light meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by rinsing fresh peas under cold water. If using frozen peas, thaw them completely.
- Dice the cucumber into small cubes.
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Chop the fresh mint leaves coarsely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peas, cucumber, red onion, and mint.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute fresh peas with canned peas if you’re short on time. For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add avocado for creaminess.
Serving and Pairings
Pea salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light appetizer. It also makes a tasty addition to any picnic spread or barbecue.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed cold and should not be reheated, as the fresh ingredients may lose their texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using canned peas instead of fresh can alter the flavor significantly.
- Overdressing the salad can make it soggy.
- Neglecting to chill the salad before serving can affect its refreshing taste.
- Forgetting to season properly may result in bland flavor.
- Cutting the vegetables too large can affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- For an extra crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color.
- Let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas in this salad?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this salad. Just make sure they are thawed before use to maintain texture.
How long can I store leftover pea salad?
Leftover pea salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge until serving.
What can I serve with pea salad?
Pea salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish for barbecues.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pea salad is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the feta cheese is made from vegetarian-friendly rennet.
How can I add more protein to this salad?
You can add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or beans to increase the protein content.
Conclusion
Pea salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy this delightful salad as a side dish or a light meal, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste!
Pea Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse fresh peas under cold water. If using frozen peas, thaw them completely.
- Dice the cucumber into small cubes.
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Chop the fresh mint leaves coarsely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peas, cucumber, red onion, and mint.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Toss everything gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve chilled or at room temperature.