Snow Pea Salad(Makes 6 To 8 Servings)
A vibrant and crunchy snow pea salad featuring fresh bell peppers, mushrooms, and a tangy sesame vinaigrette, perfect for light, healthy gatherings or side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch snow peas in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Drain the snow peas and rinse with cold running water to stop the cooking process.
- Let the snow peas cool completely.
- In a large glass bowl, combine the cooled snow peas, sliced bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms.
- In a small container, mix the walnut or sesame oil, white wine vinegar, granulated sugar, and lemon juice to make the dressing.
- Just before serving, toss the vegetable mixture with the oil mixture to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the walnuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. If you're short on time, pre-sliced mushrooms can save you some prep work. For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of soy sauce to the dressing or incorporating some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. Blanching the snow peas is key to maintaining their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Snow Pea Salad is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a light lunch, serve it alongside a bowl of soup or incorporate it into a wrap. To enhance the dish, consider serving it with a side of Margarita Sesame Salad Dressing for an extra layer of flavor. It's also a fantastic addition to any potluck or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the vegetables may become softer over time. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider making the salad in smaller batches or adding the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snow Pea Salad(Makes 6 To 8 Servings) contains roughly 194 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). 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 snow peas instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen snow peas, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the salad. Fresh snow peas have a crisp texture that enhances the salad, but thawed frozen peas can work in a pinch. Just avoid overcooking them during blanching.
What can I substitute for the walnut oil?
If you don't have walnut oil, sesame oil is a great alternative that complements the salad's flavors. You could also use olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter option. Each substitute will slightly alter the taste, so choose one that suits your preference.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time, but it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This will prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy. When stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it a great option for quick lunches.
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).