Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad
A vibrant, refreshing black-eyed pea salad with crisp celery, ripe tomato, and a tangy dressing—perfect for light lunches, picnics, or healthy side dishes. Suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain black-eyed peas and rinse with cold water, then drain well.
- Add chopped celery and finely chopped onion to the peas.
- Combine salad oil, vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and cayenne pepper to make the dressing.
- Mix the dressing well.
- Pour the dressing over the peas and vegetables.
- Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
- Allow the salad to chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, let the salad marinate for at least an hour before serving. You can substitute the black-eyed peas with chickpeas for a different taste and texture. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative. Adding chopped bell peppers or cucumber can also enhance the freshness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad makes a great side dish for barbecues or picnics and pairs beautifully with American recipes like grilled chicken or fish. Serve it alongside some crusty bread or as a filling on a bed of greens for a light meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it with Sugared Peanuts Or Pecans for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best served cold. If it seems dry after storage, add a splash of vinegar or oil to refresh it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad contains roughly 99 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1866mg per serving (81% 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 in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter option or a vegan substitute, Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt can work well in place of mayonnaise. They will still provide creaminess while reducing calories.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check the labels of your ingredients, especially the vinegar, to ensure they are gluten-free.
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).