If you’re searching for a fresh and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat, look no further than this pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese. This vibrant salad bursts with color and flavor, making it a great addition to any meal. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish at dinner parties, this recipe strikes the right balance of crunch from the peas and sharpness from the red onions. The creamy cheese adds a rich texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully. With minimal prep time required, you can whip up this delicious dish in just under 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side at dinner, our pea salad is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Green Peas: For the best flavor and texture, use sweet garden peas; frozen peas can also work if fresh ones are not available.
- Red Onions: Thinly slice these for that sharp flavor contrast; they add both crunch and color to the salad.
- Creamy Cheese: Feta or goat cheese works best; their creaminess complements the peas perfectly.
- Mayonnaise: Use regular or light mayonnaise to bind everything together; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness to the salad; it enhances all flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Peas
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add fresh green peas and cook them for about two to three minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain immediately and rinse them under cold water.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the peas cool down, thinly slice red onions using a sharp knife. Aim for even slices so they mix well throughout the salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooled peas with sliced red onions. Crumble in your choice of creamy cheese—feta or goat cheese work wonderfully.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise with fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust seasoning by adding salt or pepper according to taste.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the combined ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes before serving so flavors meld beautifully.
Transfer to plates and serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh peas when possible; they provide superior flavor compared to canned options.
- Add Crunch: Incorporate diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra texture if desired.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better when made ahead of time; let it sit overnight in the fridge before serving.
How to Serve Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
This Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the components of your Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese up to a day in advance. Chop the onions and cheese, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The peas can be cooked ahead, just ensure they cool completely before storing. This prep can save you about 15-20 minutes on the day you plan to serve.
- Storing: Leftovers from your Pea Salad should be stored in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure that any dressing is added just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
- Reheating: If you prefer your salad warm, gently reheat it in a pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Avoid using high heat to preserve texture and flavor.
Suggestions for Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
Choose Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for a successful pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese. Fresh peas not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your dish. When selecting red onions, opt for firm ones that are free of blemishes. Fresh cheese, like feta or goat cheese, will add a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the crunchy peas and onions. Avoid using canned peas or wilted vegetables as they can compromise the taste and texture of your salad. Always wash your produce thoroughly to ensure cleanliness and maximize flavor.
Balance Flavors
A well-balanced flavor profile can elevate your pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary. The sweetness of peas pairs well with the sharpness of red onions, while cheese adds creaminess. However, if you use too much onion, it may overpower the dish. Aim for a harmonious blend by adjusting the quantities based on your preference. You can also add herbs like dill or mint to enhance freshness without overshadowing the main flavors. Taste your dressing before adding it to ensure it complements all ingredients rather than masking their natural flavors.
Mind Your Dressing
The dressing plays a vital role in your pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese. A dressing that is too oily or acidic can detract from the freshness of the peas and onions. For a balanced dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in suitable proportions. Start with minimal amounts and gradually adjust until you reach your desired flavor. Remember that letting your salad sit after dressing allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, avoid overdressing; you want each ingredient to shine through without being overwhelmed by sauce.
Serving Temperature Matters
The serving temperature can greatly affect how your pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese is perceived. This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature, which helps maintain its crispness and enhances flavors. If you’ve prepared it ahead of time, refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to develop fully. Conversely, serving it too warm may cause the cheese to melt excessively, altering both texture and taste negatively. Aim for that perfect balance where everything retains its intended characteristics for optimal enjoyment.
FAQs
What type of peas should I use in my pea salad?
When making a pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese, fresh garden peas are ideal due to their sweet flavor and crisp texture. However, if fresh peas aren’t available, frozen peas can be a great alternative as they are often harvested at peak freshness and quickly frozen. Avoid using canned peas since they tend to be mushy and lack flavor compared to fresh or frozen options. Whichever type you choose, make sure to blanch them briefly if using frozen peas to preserve their bright green color and crunch.
Can I add other vegetables to my pea salad?
Absolutely! While this pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese focuses on these key ingredients, feel free to incorporate additional vegetables based on personal preferences or seasonal availability. Cherry tomatoes can add sweetness while bell peppers offer crunch and color. Cucumbers provide refreshing notes that contrast nicely with the richness of cheese. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind so that no single ingredient overshadows the others.
How long can I store leftover pea salad?
Leftover pea salad from your delicious pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. However, it’s best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and taste. Over time, moisture from the dressing may cause the ingredients to become soggy or lose their crunchiness—particularly the peas and onions. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider keeping some components separate (like the dressing) until you’re ready to eat again.
What cheeses pair well with this salad?
In this pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese, several types of cheeses can complement your dish beautifully. Feta is a classic choice due to its crumbly texture and salty flavor that balances well with sweet peas and sharp onions. Goat cheese provides creaminess along with a tangy punch that enhances overall taste profiles effectively. Alternatively, shredded cheddar or mozzarella could work if you’re looking for milder options that still contribute richness without dominating other flavors.
Conclusion for Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
In summary, creating a delicious pea salad recipe with red onions and cheese involves selecting fresh ingredients, balancing flavors effectively, minding your dressing choices, and serving at just the right temperature. By avoiding common mistakes such as using wilted produce or allowing strong flavors like onion to overpower your dish, you’ll ensure a delightful eating experience every time. Don’t shy away from experimenting by adding extra vegetables or trying different types of cheese—the possibilities are endless! Enjoy crafting this fresh dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Pea Salad Recipe with Red Onions and Cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Description
This vibrant pea salad is a refreshing blend of sweet garden peas, crisp red onions, and creamy cheese, creating an irresistible side dish perfect for summer picnics or dinner parties. With its vivid colors and delightful crunch, this salad not only pleases the eyes but also tantalizes the taste buds. The combination of flavors—sweetness from the peas, sharpness from the red onions, and richness from the cheese—makes it an ideal accompaniment to any main course. Best of all, this easy-to-make dish comes together in under 30 minutes, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it chilled for a delightful addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh green peas (or frozen)
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook peas in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes; drain and cool.
- Slice red onion thinly.
- In a large bowl, mix cooled peas, sliced onion, and crumbled cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
