Marjorie Boyd'S Pea Salad
Marjorie Boyd's Pea Salad is a vibrant, creamy dish combining sweet peas, crunchy vegetables, tangy relish, and melted cheese, perfect for picnics or potlucks. Its refreshing flavors and easy preparation make it a crowd-pleaser suited for casual gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen peas until tender, then drain.
- Mix the cooked peas with chopped onion, chopped celery, sweet pickle relish, chopped pimento, shredded American cheese, salt, sugar, black pepper, and mayonnaise.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or swapping the American cheese for cheddar. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise. Ensure the peas are thoroughly drained to avoid a watery salad. For added crunch, mix in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, which can enhance texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pea salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics, pairing well with grilled meats or sandwiches. It also complements lighter fare, such as a Vegetable Frittata. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup or as part of a buffet spread. Garnish with extra pimento or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of mayonnaise or yogurt to restore creaminess. This dish is best served cold, so avoid reheating to maintain its fresh flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marjorie Boyd'S Pea Salad contains roughly 118 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1440mg per serving (63% 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 fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes until tender, then drain and cool before mixing them into the salad. Fresh peas will provide a sweeter and crunchier texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make the salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayonnaise or avocado for creaminess. Replace the American cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit it. The salad will still be delicious and refreshing without compromising on flavor.
What can I add for extra protein?
For added protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or diced hard-boiled eggs. These additions will make the salad more filling and satisfying, turning it into a more substantial dish. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
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).