Lesueur Pea Salad
Lesueur Pea Salad is a vibrant, crunchy dish featuring sweet peas, crisp celery, colorful bell peppers, and tangy pickles, all combined with creamy mayonnaise. Perfect as a refreshing side or picnic addition, it appeals to those seeking a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make salad with a balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Chill on a bed of lettuce before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, or using a flavored mayonnaise like garlic or herb. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts or seeds. Fresh peas can also be used instead of canned for a more vibrant taste. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, as the pickles will add some brininess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Lesueur Pea Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce for an appealing presentation. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as part of a light lunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside sandwiches or as a side to dishes like Hot Bacon Dressing or Monster Mash Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the salad appears dry after storage, you can mix in a little more mayonnaise or yogurt before serving to refresh the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lesueur Pea Salad contains roughly 168 calories, with 8g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg per serving (40% 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 use frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen peas! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the salad's texture and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?
Absolutely! You can opt for a plant-based cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor with the other ingredients.
How can I make this salad a bit more filling?
To make the salad more substantial, consider adding cooked quinoa or pasta. These additions can turn it into a hearty dish, making it great for a main course or a picnic option. Just make sure to adjust the dressing accordingly.
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).