Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Spring Pea Salad is loaded with flavor and nutrients. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Packed with fresh ingredients like peas, cucumbers, and tomatoes, it’s not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. You can add herbs, nuts, or even protein to tailor it to your liking.
Ingredients
-
2 cups fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
½ cup diced cucumber
-
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
-
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
-
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
-
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Peas: Blanch fresh peas in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. For frozen peas, simply thaw them.
-
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, halve the tomatoes, and chop the red onion finely.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, mint, and parsley.
-
Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
-
Chill: Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy the vibrant flavors of spring!
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 4
-
Prep time: 15 minutes
-
Cook time: 5 minutes (for blanching peas)
-
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
-
Add Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add extra crunch.
-
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.
-
Fruit Twist: Add diced apples or strawberries for a sweet contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best served fresh, but can be enjoyed the next day as well.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work just fine. Just thaw them before adding to the salad.
How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive guests.
Conclusion
Spring Pea Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its refreshing ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy. Customize it to your taste and enjoy the burst of springtime flavors in every bite!
Spring Pea Salad
Spring Pea Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Made with sweet peas, crisp vegetables, and a light olive oil and lemon dressing, this salad is ideal for any meal. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and versatile, making it a great side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or picnics.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for blanching peas)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Salad, Healthy Recipes
- Method: No-Cook, Tossing
- Cuisine: American, Healthy
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup diced cucumber
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Peas:
If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. For frozen peas, simply thaw them. -
Chop the Vegetables:
Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. -
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the peas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, mint, and parsley. -
Make the Dressing:
Whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. -
Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well-coated. -
Chill:
Let the salad sit in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Serve:
Serve the salad chilled and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of spring!
Notes
Add Nuts: For extra crunch, toss in toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
Fruit Twist: Dice up apples or strawberries for a sweet contrast.