Creamy Pea Salad
Introduction
Welcome to our delicious and refreshing creamy pea salad recipe! This vibrant and flavorful dish is perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or as a side dish for any occasion. Made with fresh peas, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, this salad is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
For this creamy pea salad recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh peas
- 1 cup of chopped celery
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
- 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make your creamy pea salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Peas
Start by blanching the fresh peas in boiling water for about 2 minutes or until they are slightly tender. Then, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched peas, chopped celery, diced red onion, and diced bell pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Once chilled, give the salad a final stir and serve it cold.
Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this creamy pea salad recipe. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Bacon and Cheese
Add cooked and crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese for a savory twist.
2. Mediterranean Style
Add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
3. Herb-infused
Add additional herbs like parsley, mint, or basil to enhance the freshness of the salad.
Tips
Here are a few tips to make your creamy pea salad even more delicious:
- Use fresh peas when they are in season for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or shredded carrots for extra color and texture.
- Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your preference. You can add more or less mayo, sour cream, or mustard to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Creamy pea salad is a delightful side dish that brings together the freshness of peas, the crunchiness of vegetables, and the creaminess of the dressing. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a light and refreshing lunch, this salad is sure to please. Try out our recipe and impress your family and friends with this vibrant and delicious dish!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen peas if fresh peas are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before using and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
Q: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Creamy pea salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate it until ready to serve and give it a good stir before serving.