Patio Salad
A refreshing green pea salad with ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy dill pickle dressing, perfect for casual gatherings and outdoor patio meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add frozen peas and salt to water in a saucepan.
- Cover and bring quickly to a full boil.
- Add Minute rice and stir with a fork to moisten all rice.
- Cover and remove from heat, let stand for 13 minutes.
- Add mayonnaise, pickle, and onion, mixing with a fork. Chill.
- Before serving, add ham and Swiss cheese.
- Serve on crisp lettuce with a ring of tomato wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute fresh peas for frozen ones if they're in season. If you want to add some crunch, diced bell peppers or celery would work well. Remember to fluff the rice gently after it sits to ensure it stays light and airy. This salad can be made ahead of time, just add the ham and cheese right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Patio Salad is best served chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce. Pair it with a light vinaigrette or a side of fresh tomato wedges for a refreshing contrast. It complements grilled meats and is a great addition to summer barbecues, making it a perfect side dish alongside Glazed Ham Balls or Kansas City Baked Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat the salad, gently warm it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat as the mayonnaise can separate. Alternatively, serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patio Salad contains roughly 436 calories, with 23g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1741mg per serving (76% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just mix all ingredients except for the ham and cheese, cover, and refrigerate. Add the ham and cheese just before serving to keep them fresh and maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you don't have Swiss cheese on hand, provolone or gouda would be great alternatives. They both offer a mild flavor that blends well with the other ingredients. For a sharper taste, you could even use cheddar cheese.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables, such as diced cucumbers or bell peppers. You could also incorporate chickpeas for added protein and texture, making it a filling and nutritious dish.
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).