Green Pea, Carrot And Mozzarella Salad
A refreshing green pea, carrot, and mozzarella salad packed with fresh flavors, perfect as a light side or appetizer for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas ⓘ
- 1 medium-size carrot, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 small stalk celery, chopped ⓘ
- 1 oz. part-skim mozzarella cheese, cubed ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. buttermilk ⓘ
- 2 green onions, chopped fine ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. plain low-fat yogurt ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. red wine vinegar ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil, crumbled ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Bring an inch of unsalted water to a boil in a small heavy saucepan.
- Add the peas and carrot, cook for 5 minutes.
- Drain, rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking, and drain again.
- Place the cooked peas and carrot in a medium-size bowl.
- Add the chopped celery and mozzarella cheese to the bowl.
- Toss well to combine and mix all ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider including some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers in the salad. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute the low-fat yogurt with Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor profile. If using frozen peas, ensure they are thawed and drained properly before combining with other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a refreshing side dish during summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside dishes like My Mom'S Corn Bread for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. If it seems dry, a splash of fresh buttermilk or yogurt can help revive it. Avoid freezing as the texture will change significantly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Pea, Carrot And Mozzarella Salad contains roughly 232 calories, with 15g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. At about 232 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, to maintain the freshness of the vegetables, it’s best to add the mozzarella just before serving. If stored properly, the flavors will meld nicely without compromising the crunch of the peas and carrots.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you're out of mozzarella, you can use feta cheese for a tangy flavor or a vegan cheese alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Each will bring a different taste and texture, so choose based on your preference.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy. It’s perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.
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).