When I first made this Pea Salad, I was a little unsure how it would turn out! Peas had never been my favorite, but I decided to give them a chance. To my surprise, the freshness and crunch really changed my perspective. The first attempt went smoothly, but I wanted to kick the flavor up a notch! After a bit of experimentation with herbs and spices, the addition of fresh dill made all the difference. It gave the salad an extra zing that I absolutely loved! Trust me, don’t skip the fresh herbs; they truly elevate this dish!

Pea Salad

This Pea Salad is a vibrant, crunchy dish that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even as a light side at dinner. Packed with fresh peas, crisp veggies, and a simple, zesty dressing, it’s not only delightful but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this salad will surely impress. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt various tastes and dietary preferences – a true crowd-pleaser!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups of fresh or frozen peas thawed and drained if frozen
• 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup of diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese feel free to substitute with feta or leave it out for a vegan option!
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill you can replace it with chives or parsley, too!
• 1/2 cup of sour cream greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Prep the Ingredients: First things first, you want to chop up your onion, dill, and cucumber. It’s all about those vibrant colors!
• Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the peas, red onion, cucumber, and cheese. The colors are already starting to pop, and we're just getting started!
• Make the Dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until it’s all creamy and blended. Taste it and adjust salt and pepper as needed—this is your chance to tailor it to your liking!
• Combine Everything: Pour that delicious dressing over the pea mixture. Gently stir until everything is coated nicely. This is where the magic happens!
• Chill Out: Cover your salad and pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This chill time helps meld those flavors together. Trust me; it’s worth it!
• Serve and Enjoy: After it’s had time to chill, give it one last stir, sprinkle a little more dill on top if you like, and serve! Your friends and family will adore this colorful salad!

Keyword Easy side dish, Healthy Recipes, Pea salad, Picnic salad

Nutrition Facts

5 Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

• Use fresh peas when they’re in season for the best flavor.
• Modify the dressing based on your taste – more lemon juice for zestiness or more sour cream for creaminess!
• Chill the salad longer if you want the flavors to intensify even more.
• Add some crumbled bacon for a savory twist!
• Look at different cheeses; goat cheese or blue cheese work great if you want to switch it up.

5 FAQs for this Recipe

• Can I use frozen peas? Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
• How long does the salad last in the fridge? It’ll be fresh for about 3 days when stored correctly.
• Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! Just remember to keep it chilled until serving.
• Is this salad vegan? You can make it vegan by swapping the dairy with plant-based alternatives.
• What should I serve it with? It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just on its own!

5 Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Keep it in the fridge and consume within 3 days.
• For best flavor, avoid freezing this salad.
• Mix with a little extra dressing if it seems dry after storage.
• Label your container with the date you made it; that way, you won’t lose track!

5 Common Cooking Mistakes

• Not seasoning adequately—don’t skip the salt and pepper!
• Using overcooked peas—these should still have a little bite!
• Skipping the chill time—trust me, the flavor develops so much better when it gets cold!
• Not adjusting the dressing—taste it before you mix it in!
• Using stale ingredients—always go for fresh for the best results!

Final Thoughts

Making this Pea Salad was not only a tasty adventure but also a refreshing reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something delightful. I learned the importance of fresh herbs and really enjoyed the vibrant colors as I prepped each ingredient. Every bite of this salad carries that crunchy, creamy goodness along with a zesty kick that brings a smile to my face. If you’re looking for a side dish that stands out, this one is definitely a winner. I can’t wait for you to try it – I think you’re going to love it just as much as I do!

Remember, recipes are meant to be a guide, so feel free to get creative and make this salad your own. Share it with family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy the process. Happy cooking, everyone!

With its simplicity and versatility, I know this Pea Salad will soon become a staple for gatherings and a go-to pantry salad for those busy weeknights. Let’s keep our kitchens filled with fun and flavors!