Ah, the classic pea salad recipe! This dish has a way of bringing back memories of sunny family gatherings and backyard barbecues, doesn’t it? It’s so simple yet so refreshingly delicious! Just picture it: vibrant green peas glistening in a creamy dressing, mingling beautifully with sharp cheddar and crunchy red onion. Every bite is like a little celebration of flavor and texture!
I love making this salad when I’m entertaining friends or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl—comforting and satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it comes together in no time at all, which is perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you whip this up, your family will be asking for it time and time again!
Ingredients for Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful classic pea salad that’s sure to impress!
- 2 cups fresh green peas (you can use frozen, just thaw them first!)
- 1 cup diced sharp cheddar cheese (I love the bite it adds!)
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion (for that perfect crunch and zing!)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (feel free to use a light version if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (this gives it a lovely tang)
- Salt to taste (just a pinch to enhance those flavors)
- Pepper to taste (I like a little kick, but you do you!)
These ingredients come together so beautifully, creating a salad that’s not just tasty, but also visually appealing! You’ll want to have everything prepped and ready to go before you dive in, so let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Making this classic pea salad is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to serve in no time. Trust me, the hardest part is waiting for it to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by taking a large mixing bowl and combine your 2 cups of fresh green peas, 1 cup of diced sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of finely diced red onion. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. You want those peas to be well-coated with cheese and onion for maximum flavor!
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. This dressing is where all the magic happens, so be sure to whisk it well until it’s nice and smooth.
- Pour that creamy dressing over your pea mixture and stir everything together until it’s all well combined. The colors will pop, and you’ll know you’re onto something delicious!
- Now, here’s the most important part: cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least one hour. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delightful.
After an hour, you can dig in! Just remember to give it a quick stir before serving to refresh those flavors. I promise, the wait will be worth it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for this classic pea salad recipe. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each tasty serving!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 7g
This salad packs a punch of protein and fiber thanks to those lovely peas and cheese, making it a filling addition to any meal. Enjoy it guilt-free at your next gathering or as a refreshing side dish on a warm day!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this classic pea salad, let me share some of my favorite pro tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your salad will taste! Opt for fresh green peas when possible, or high-quality frozen peas if you’re in a pinch. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- Customize Your Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try a creamy gouda or tangy feta for a different flavor twist. Each cheese brings its own personality to the dish!
- Mix in Some Crunch: If you want to elevate the texture, think about adding some chopped celery or bell peppers. They’ll add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
- Let It Chill: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the salad to sit for at least an hour (or even longer) helps the flavors meld together. It’s so worth the wait!
- Bacon Lovers Unite: If you’re a bacon fan, sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits. They add a savory crunch that complements the sweetness of the peas perfectly!
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste as you go! Depending on your palate, you might want to add a touch more salt or pepper. It’s all about making it yours!
- Make Ahead: This salad actually tastes even better the next day! So, if you can, make it a day in advance. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh those flavors.
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a classic pea salad that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Refreshing taste that brightens up any meal or gathering.
- Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish, snack, or light lunch.
- Great for potlucks and picnics—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- Can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins, so you can make it your own!
- Vegetarian-friendly and satisfying with a nice balance of protein and fiber.
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s talk about the ingredients in this classic pea salad and explore some fun substitutions to make it your own! Each component plays a role in creating that delightful flavor and texture, but sometimes you might be in the mood to switch things up.
- Green Peas: Fresh peas are ideal for that sweet crunch, but frozen peas work just as well! Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before using. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even use sugar snap peas for an extra sweet kick!
- Cheddar Cheese: While I adore sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to swap it out for your favorite cheese. Creamy gouda or crumbled feta can add a delightful twist, and for a milder flavor, try using Monterey Jack.
- Red Onion: If red onion feels a bit too strong for your taste, you can use green onions for a milder flavor or even finely diced shallots. They still bring that necessary crunch without the sharp bite!
- Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. It’ll give you that creamy texture with a tangy twist! If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based mayo.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can work as a brightening substitute. They’ll still add that nice tang to balance the creaminess!
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is so personal! Feel free to use other spices or herbs to elevate the flavor. A dash of garlic powder or a sprinkle of dill can add a lovely new layer to the salad.
These substitutions can enhance the dish in unexpected ways, so don’t hesitate to get creative! The beauty of this classic pea salad is its flexibility, allowing you to make it suit your taste preferences and whatever you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting!
Variations of Classic Pea Salad Recipe
Oh, the possibilities are endless when it comes to jazzing up this classic pea salad! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations that can take this salad to the next level!
- Bacon Bliss: For all the bacon lovers out there, adding crispy bacon bits is a game changer! The salty crunch pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peas and the creaminess of the dressing. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!
- Cheese Swap: While sharp cheddar is my go-to, don’t be shy about experimenting with different cheeses! Try crumbled feta for a tangy twist or creamy goat cheese for a rich, decadent flavor. You could even mix in some mozzarella for a milder taste!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your salad to a whole new level. I love adding chopped dill or parsley for a fresher, brighter taste. Basil can also add a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the peas beautifully!
- Nutty Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider tossing in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They’ll add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing and sweet peas.
- Veggie Boost: Amp up the nutrition by adding some chopped bell peppers or even diced celery for that extra crunch! They add color and a refreshing crunch that complements the other ingredients.
- Fruit Fusion: Want to add a hint of sweetness? Toss in some diced apples or grapes. The sweetness will balance out the savory elements and add a refreshing twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s a fun way to give your classic pea salad a spicy makeover!
These variations can help you create a salad that’s uniquely yours while keeping that classic pea salad charm. Feel free to mix and match ideas to find your perfect combination. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s chat about how to properly store your classic pea salad so you can enjoy those leftovers without any fuss! After making this delightful dish, you might find yourself with some extra salad, and that’s a good thing because it tastes even better the next day!
To store your classic pea salad, simply transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep all those lovely flavors locked in. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more those flavors meld together, creating a deliciously creamy bite each time you dig in!
If you want to make it ahead of time for a gathering, feel free to whip it up a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the ingredients and flavors. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy days!
As for reheating—this salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to heat it up! Just grab a spoon and enjoy straight from the fridge. If you find that it thickens a bit after a day in the fridge, you can add a splash of mayonnaise or a touch of vinegar to loosen it up and restore that creamy texture.
So, whether you’re enjoying it fresh or savoring those tasty leftovers, this classic pea salad is sure to please! Happy munching!
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Classic Pea Salad Recipe for 5-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic pea salad recipe that is simple and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups green peas
- 1 cup diced cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine green peas, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding bacon bits.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: classic pea salad recipe
