Irish Pea Salad
Earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onions, and creamy Irish cheese come together in this delightful Irish Pea Salad. Perfect for picnics or gatherings, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The unique herbed yogurt mayo dressing enhances the flavors and adds a creamy texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as a side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad effortlessly.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish, main course, or even take it to picnics—this salad fits all occasions.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and creamy Irish cheese elevates the flavor profile and makes each bite delightful.
- Healthy Option: Packed with peas and yogurt, this salad offers nutrition without compromising on taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet peppers and tangy dressing ensures that everyone will want seconds.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand to simplify your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Strainer: Helps drain excess water from the peas and onions for a better texture.
- Knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables, enhancing presentation.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and prepping ingredients safely.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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 (I used Dubliner, but aged cheddar works well too)
– 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 and add cool water to thaw them. Stir occasionally while preparing other ingredients to break up any frozen chunks.
Step 2: Soak the Onions
In a separate smaller bowl, soak the chopped onion in water for 15 minutes. After soaking, drain both the peas and onions thoroughly in 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, return them to the mixing bowl along with the remaining salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
Prepare the dressing in the same bowl you used for soaking the onions by stirring together all dressing ingredients. Pour this mixture over the salad. Gently fold it in until all vegetables are coated. Cover and refrigerate until serving time.
Enjoy your refreshing Irish Pea Salad! Perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or serving it at a family gathering, these suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
As a Side Dish
- Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair it with barbecued ribs for a sweet and tangy complement.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the Irish Pea Salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Add fresh herbs on top for an aromatic touch.
On Baked Potatoes
- Top baked potatoes with Irish Pea Salad for a hearty twist.
- Drizzle with extra yogurt dressing for added creaminess.
As a Light Lunch
- Serve the salad as is, accompanied by whole grain crackers.
- Pair it with a cup of soup to make it more filling.
How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad
To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Irish Pea Salad, consider the following tips.
- Use fresh peas: If available, fresh peas offer a sweeter and crunchier texture compared to frozen ones.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add more salt or mustard if needed to enhance flavors.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to substitute or add other herbs like dill or parsley for varied flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad
When serving Irish Pea Salad, it’s great to have some side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn pairs nicely with the creamy elements of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds texture and flavor, making it an inviting side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring out earthy flavors that balance the sweetness of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty quinoa dish can add protein and fiber while keeping meals light and healthy.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit mix provides sweetness and freshness, perfect for balancing savory dishes.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent accompaniment that everyone enjoys.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect Irish Pea Salad can be easy, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the onions in water can leave them too pungent. Soaking reduces the bite and enhances flavor.
- Neglecting to drain properly: Failing to drain the peas and onions well may result in a watery salad. Make sure you dry them completely to keep the texture intact.
- Over-mixing the salad: Tossing too aggressively can crush the peas and alter their texture. Gently fold the ingredients for a better presentation.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to a bland salad. Always sample before serving and tweak as needed.
- Waiting too long to serve: Allowing the salad to sit too long before serving can make it soggy. Serve within a few hours for the best experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Irish Pea Salad
- It’s best not to freeze this salad, as it may lose its texture once thawed.
- If necessary, consume within a month, but expect changes in quality.
Reheating Irish Pea Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Irish Pea Salad:
What is Irish Pea Salad?
Irish Pea Salad is a refreshing dish made with green peas, sweet onions, peppers, Irish cheese, and a herbed yogurt mayo dressing.
Can I customize my Irish Pea Salad?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like corn or carrots or even include diced ham or bacon for extra flavor.
How do I make Irish Pea Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just mix everything except the dressing and store it in the fridge. Add the dressing right before serving.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh peas can be used but will require blanching beforehand for optimal texture.
Final Thoughts
Irish Pea Salad is an appealing dish that combines earthy flavors with creamy dressing and crunchy textures. It’s perfect for picnics or gatherings and offers plenty of customization options. Try adding your favorite herbs or veggies for a unique twist!
Irish Pea Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the fresh flavors of Irish Pea Salad, a delightful blend of earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onions, and creamy Irish cheese. This easy-to-prepare salad is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to family gatherings. The unique herbed yogurt mayo dressing not only enhances the flavors but also adds a velvety texture that will satisfy your taste buds. Packed with wholesome ingredients and nutrition, this salad is not just a treat for your palate but also a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a light meal. Serve it as a side dish or a main course—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs
- 2 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 frozen peas by placing them in a large mixing bowl with cool water; stir occasionally.
- Soak chopped onions in water for 15 minutes, then drain both peas and onions.
- In the mixing bowl, combine drained peas, onions, chopped eggs, sweet peppers, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, relish, sugar, salt, mustard, and herbs; pour over salad and fold gently.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
