Pea And Almond Salad
A vibrant pea and almond salad with a creamy curry mayo dressing, perfect for light lunches or side dishes, offering fresh, crunchy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If using fresh peas, shell and blanch for 3 to 5 minutes or until tender yet firm.
- Drain and cool.
- Combine peas, smoked almonds, and chopped green onions in a bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, mix mayonnaise and curry powder.
- Pour the curry mayo over the pea mixture and toss well to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher flavor, consider using fresh peas and blanching them just until tender. If you can’t find smoked almonds, regular almonds can be used; just add a pinch of smoked paprika for a similar taste. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This salad can also be customized with additional ingredients like diced bell peppers or chopped herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a refreshing drink like Strawberry Slush Punch. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the dish. However, to maintain the texture of the peas and almonds, avoid freezing the salad. When ready to serve, give it a good stir and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea And Almond Salad contains roughly 212 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh ones?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly for this recipe. They are usually blanched before freezing, so you can simply thaw them and toss them into the salad. If you prefer a firmer texture, blanch them for a shorter time. This keeps the vibrant color and sweet flavor intact.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier or vegan option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. These options will still provide creaminess while adding a tangy flavor that complements the curry seasoning.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just prepare the salad and dress it just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy.
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).