Pea 'N' Cheese Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad combining sweet peas, crunchy celery, tangy pickles, and sharp cheese, dressed lightly with mayonnaise—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and toss lightly.
- Serve on salad greens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or substituting Greek yogurt for half of it. If you prefer a little crunch, try adding diced bell peppers or a handful of nuts. For a twist, incorporate herbs like dill or parsley for freshness. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a great fit for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad on a bed of crisp salad greens for a delightful presentation. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a picnic or potluck, consider serving it alongside Kentucky Cole Slaw for a refreshing side dish combo. This salad can also be a tasty filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pea 'N' Cheese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a small amount of mayonnaise or yogurt to refresh it before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pea 'N' Cheese Salad contains roughly 377 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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?
Absolutely! Frozen peas can be a great substitute. Just blanch them in boiling water for a minute or two, then cool them quickly in ice water before adding them to the salad. This ensures they maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture, making your salad even more appealing.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To lighten up the Pea 'N' Cheese Salad, use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a healthier dressing. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or choose a lower-fat cheese option. Adding more vegetables, such as diced cucumbers or carrots, can also increase the nutritional value while adding crunch.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! You can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. However, if you plan to keep it for several days, consider adding any crunchy ingredients, like celery or pickles, just before serving to maintain their texture.
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).