Cold Pea Salad
A vibrant, crunchy cold salad combining peas, cauliflower, broccoli, water chestnuts, and celery, tossed in a creamy garlic and cheese dressing—perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peas, cauliflower, water chestnuts, broccoli, and celery; spread in a layer in a small pan.
- Mix salad dressing mix, mayonnaise, and sour cream; pour over the vegetable mixture.
- Optional: Add bacon bits to the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh peas instead of frozen. If you can't find water chestnuts, jicama can be a crunchy substitute. To make this dish lighter, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even mixing and presentation. Adding herbs like dill or chives can enhance the flavor profile, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
This Cold Pea Salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as chicken or pork recipes, and can be served alongside dishes like Hamburg Goulash. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a light soup for a balanced lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld and improve over time, but the texture of the vegetables may soften. If you prefer a crunch, consider adding fresh vegetables when serving leftovers. To refresh the salad, stir in a little extra mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Pea Salad contains roughly 721 calories, with 15g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. However, if you plan to add bacon bits, it's best to add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This will give you a similar creaminess with added protein. Alternatively, a vegan mayonnaise can be used for a dairy-free version.
Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green onions for added color and crunch. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well with the other ingredients. This adaptability makes it a great recipe to customize.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).