Irish Pea Salad
Earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onion, sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese come together in this delicious Irish Pea Salad. Perfect for picnics or potlucks, this salad is not only easy to whip up but also full of flavor. With its herbed yogurt mayo dressing, it stands out as a refreshing option that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy days.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a light lunch on its own.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of green peas, sweet peppers, and Irish cheese creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
- Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and protein from the eggs and yogurt, it’s a nutritious choice for any occasion.
- Great for Meal Prep: This salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on your Irish Pea Salad, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Strainer: Draining excess water from the onions and peas ensures your salad isn’t watery.
- Cutting Board & Knife: These are essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
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 Salad
- 1 20-oz. package frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2 mini sweet peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (Dubliner or aged cheddar)
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
- 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 a few times while prepping other ingredients to break up any frozen chunks.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions
In a separate smaller bowl, soak the chopped onions in water for 15 minutes. Drain both very well using a strainer. Dry out the mixing bowl by wiping it with a clean towel.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the peas and onions are drained, pour them back into the mixing bowl along with the rest of the salad ingredients. Toss gently to mix everything together.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In the bowl where you soaked the onions, stir together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold it in until all vegetables are coated.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover your salad and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This will enhance flavors and ensure everything is nicely chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Irish Pea Salad at your next gathering!
How to Serve Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just looking for a refreshing side, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with grilled meats for a vibrant contrast.
- Serve alongside sandwiches for a light lunch option.
- Complement with hearty soups to balance flavors.
At Picnics and Potlucks
- Pack in portable containers for easy transport.
- Offer in individual cups for convenient serving.
- Include as part of a buffet spread with other salads.
As a Main Course
- Add diced chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Serve over mixed greens for a hearty salad bowl.
- Incorporate into wraps for a delicious lunch.
With Bread Options
- Spread on toasted baguette slices for an appetizer.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
- Use as a filling for pita pockets.
How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad
To ensure your Irish Pea Salad is always delightful, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.
- Choose the right peas: Opt for sweet frozen peas to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Soak the onions: This reduces their sharpness, making them more palatable in the salad.
- Mix fresh herbs: Adding freshly chopped herbs amplifies the herby flavor of the dressing.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt, sugar, and mustard levels to suit your preference.
- Experiment with cheese: While Dubliner is great, try different Irish cheeses like aged cheddar for varied tastes.
Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some tasty options that complement its fresh flavors.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken cooked on skewers brings protein diversity and smoky flavor.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are perfect for soaking up any dressing left on your plate.
- Garden Vegetable Soup: A light soup adds warmth without overshadowing the salad’s freshness.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory aspects of the salad.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices provide hearty satisfaction alongside the salad.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits introduces sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of the pea salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa adds texture and makes the meal more filling without being heavy.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer bright flavors that harmonize well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Irish Pea Salad can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the peas: This can make them mushy and lose their vibrant color. Always blanch for just a minute or two.
- Skipping the soaking step for onions: Soaking helps reduce the sharpness of the onion flavor. Don’t skip this for a balanced taste.
- Using too much dressing: Overdressing can drown out the fresh flavors of the salad. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Not chilling before serving: Letting the salad rest in the fridge allows flavors to meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes of chill time.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using fresh herbs and veggies enhances flavor and texture. Make sure everything is fresh for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Consume within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and safety.
Freezing Irish Pea Salad
- Freezing is not recommended, as it may change the texture of peas and other ingredients.
- If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, but expect changes in quality.
Reheating Irish Pea Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat covered for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Irish Pea Salad to help you get started.
What makes Irish Pea Salad unique?
Irish Pea Salad stands out due to its creamy dressing combined with fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables. The use of Irish cheese adds a delightful twist.
Can I customize my Irish Pea Salad?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bacon bits or substitute different cheeses based on your preference. Feel free to make it your own!
How long does Irish Pea Salad stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad stays fresh for about 3-5 days. Always check for freshness before consuming.
Is there a vegan version of Irish Pea Salad?
Yes! You can use vegan mayonnaise and skip the eggs or replace them with tofu or chickpeas for protein without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Irish Pea Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of earthy peas, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing makes it a hit at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste!
Irish Pea Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Experience the delightful taste of Irish Pea Salad, a vibrant dish that combines earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onions, and creamy Irish cheese. This refreshing salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick side dish for any meal. Tossed in a herbed yogurt mayo dressing, every bite bursts with flavor and nutrition. With its easy preparation and versatile serving options, this salad is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Whether enjoyed solo as a light lunch or alongside grilled meats, Irish Pea Salad brings a touch of Ireland to your table.
Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
- 2 mini sweet peppers, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (Dubliner or aged cheddar)
- 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 in a large mixing bowl with cool water.
- Soak chopped onions in water for 15 minutes to reduce sharpness; drain well.
- Combine thawed peas and soaked onions with remaining salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix dressing ingredients until smooth; pour over the salad and gently fold to combine.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 255
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
