Meat-N-Peas Salad
A refreshing meat and pea salad with cheese and celery, perfect for light lunches or gatherings, served in crisp lettuce cups with a touch of paprika for flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the meat into strips and add the cubed cheese, diced celery, and drained peas.
- Combine mayonnaise, prepared mustard, and lemon juice to make the dressing.
- Toss the meat mixture with the dressing until well coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator.
- Serve in lettuce cups and dust with paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream to the dressing. If sharp cheese is too strong for your taste, substitute with mild cheddar or mozzarella. You can also use canned tuna for a different protein option. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor, making it reminiscent of Chicken Salad In Croissants.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups for a refreshing appetizer or light meal. It pairs well with whole-grain crackers or a side of fruit for balance. This dish also complements a light soup, like Macaroni And Bean Soup(Low-Fat), making for a satisfying lunch or picnic spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the lettuce, keep it separate and add it just before serving. If reheating, be cautious not to overheat the salad to avoid wilted lettuce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat-N-Peas Salad contains roughly 307 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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 thaw and drain them before adding to the salad. Frozen peas are often sweeter and may enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make the salad healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and nutrition.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just mix the meat, cheese, celery, and peas, then add the dressing when ready to serve to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
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).