Southern Pea Salad
A quick and flavorful Southern pea salad featuring tender peas, crisp vegetables, and creamy mayonnaise, perfect as a side dish or light appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix drained peas, chopped onion, green pepper, and celery in a bowl.
- Add Miracle Whip mayonnaise and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers in various colors or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute Miracle Whip with a plant-based mayonnaise. This dish can also benefit from fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of taste, reminiscent of sides like Vegetable Dip For Chips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Southern Pea Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish, perfect for picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be the star of a light lunch alongside crusty bread. Consider serving it alongside Maw Maw's Dumplins for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier when enjoyed after a day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the peas and vegetables may be compromised upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Pea Salad contains roughly 134 calories, with 1g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% 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, frozen peas can be used as a fresh alternative. Simply thaw them and drain well before mixing them into the salad. This will give a fresher taste and slightly crunchier texture compared to canned peas.
How can I make this salad spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the salad. Additionally, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavors without overwhelming the dish, keeping it balanced.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend. However, it's best to add any crunchy ingredients, like celery, 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).