Irish Pea Salad
Earthy green peas come together with crunchy sweet onion, vibrant sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese in this delightful Irish Pea Salad. Whether you’re planning a picnic or a family gathering, this salad is a perfect choice that everyone will rave about. Its herbed yogurt mayo dressing adds a unique twist, making it not only tasty but also refreshing. This dish shines during any occasion, be it casual or festive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs and creamy dressing enhances the taste of fresh ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or a main meal; it’s suitable for any gathering.
- Healthy Option: Packed with peas and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for all ages.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge until serving.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your delicious Irish Pea Salad, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Strainer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without spills.
- Strainer: Ensures that your peas and onions are well-drained for optimal texture.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
Earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onion, sweet peppers and creamy Irish cheese with a delightful herbed yogurt mayo dressing make this salad so easy to toss together.
For the Base
- 1 20-oz. package frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2-4 mini sweet peppers, seeded and chopped
For the Cheese
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (I used Dubliner, but aged cheddar works well too)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or other plain yogurt)
- 3 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
For the Herbs
- About 1 1/2 Tablespoons finely chopped MIXED fresh tarragon, thyme and basil leaves
How to Make Irish Pea Salad
Step 1: Thaw the Peas
- Pour the frozen peas into a large mixing bowl.
- Add cool water to thaw them.
- Stir occasionally while prepping other ingredients to break up any frozen chunks.
Step 2: Soak the Onion
- In a separate smaller bowl, soak the chopped onion in water for 15 minutes.
- Drain both peas and onions very well in a strainer.
- Dry out the mixing bowl by wiping it with a clean towel.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Once drained, return the peas and onions to the mixing bowl.
- Add the remaining salad ingredients into the bowl.
- Toss gently to mix everything together.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
- In the bowl used for soaking onions, stir together all dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Gently fold in until all veggies are coated evenly.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
- Cover the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your refreshing Irish Pea Salad!
How to Serve Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or serving dinner at home, this salad will impress your guests with its fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
As a Standalone Dish
- This salad shines on its own as a refreshing side dish during warm weather. Enjoy it chilled for the best flavor.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair Irish Pea Salad with grilled chicken or steak. The creamy dressing complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats perfectly.
In Wraps or Sandwiches
- Use Irish Pea Salad as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. Its creamy texture adds moisture and flavor, making lunch exciting.
As Part of a Buffet
- Include this salad in a buffet spread. It adds color and variety, catering to different tastes and preferences among your guests.
Alongside Bread
- Serve with crusty bread or rolls. The combination of textures enhances the overall dining experience, making it more satisfying.
How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad
To elevate your Irish Pea Salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like tarragon, thyme, and basil can boost the salad’s aroma and taste.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality Irish cheese for a richer flavor profile that stands out.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt or extra mustard can elevate the dish.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for an hour enhances the flavors by letting them meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad
When planning a meal featuring Irish Pea Salad, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors well.
- Grilled Chicken: A classic choice, grilled chicken adds protein and pairs beautifully with the creamy peas.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the smooth salad.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings additional crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the Irish Pea Salad.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is perfect for summer meals, offering a sweet contrast to the savory salad.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add earthiness and depth to your meal while keeping it healthy.
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh bread allows guests to scoop up both the salad and other sides for an enjoyable experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Irish Pea Salad, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish is a hit.
- Skipping the thawing process: Not allowing the peas to thaw properly can lead to a watery salad. Always thaw them in cool water and drain well.
- Using too much onion: A strong onion flavor can overpower the salad. Stick to one cup of chopped sweet onion for balance.
- Neglecting the dressing: Rushing the dressing preparation can result in uneven flavor distribution. Take your time to mix it well before adding it to the salad.
- Not chilling the salad: Serving the salad immediately may not let the flavors meld together. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.
- Ignoring customization options: Sticking rigidly to the recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Irish Pea Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing Irish Pea Salad
- Freezing is not recommended, as it may change the texture of the peas and other fresh ingredients.
- If you must freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Irish Pea Salad
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat and stir gently until heated; avoid cooking too long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Irish Pea Salad that might help you make this dish even better.
What variations can I make with Irish Pea Salad?
You can customize your Irish Pea Salad by adding diced ham or bacon for extra protein, or using different types of cheese such as feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh peas can be used if they are in season. Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the salad.
How do I make a vegan version of Irish Pea Salad?
To create a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative. You can also skip the cheese or use vegan cheese.
Can I prepare Irish Pea Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Irish Pea Salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions from picnics to family dinners. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Irish Pea Salad
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Irish Pea Salad, a fresh and vibrant dish that combines earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onions, colorful sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese. Dressed in a herbed yogurt mayo that adds a refreshing twist, this salad is perfect for any occasion—from casual picnics to festive gatherings. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious and versatile salad that everyone will love. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or enjoy it on its own as a light meal. With its combination of textures and tastes, Irish Pea Salad is sure to impress your guests while keeping your meal healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs
- 2–4 mini sweet peppers
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (like Dubliner)
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
- About 1 1/2 Tablespoons finely chopped mixed fresh tarragon, thyme and basil leaves
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen peas by soaking them in cool water.
- Soak the chopped onion in water for 15 minutes to mellow the flavor.
- Drain both peas and onions well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained peas, onions, chopped eggs, mini sweet peppers, and shredded cheese.
- For the dressing, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, relish, sugar, salt, mustard, and fresh herbs until smooth; then fold it into the salad mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
