Super Pea Salad
A vibrant, tangy pea salad combining sweet peas, crunchy celery, and flavorful pimento, dressed in a sweet and sour vinaigrette—perfect for picnics and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the peas, chopped celery, chopped onion or shallots, and chopped pimento together in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, white vinegar, sugar, salt, dried basil, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving. The salad can be stored covered for at least 3 weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a vibrant touch. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half of the vegetable oil with Greek yogurt. For a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. This salad is also delicious served on a bed of greens for a fresh summer dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Super Pea Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside comforting dishes like Sweet And Sour Marinated Steaks. For a complete meal, consider adding it to a picnic spread or serving it as a light lunch option with crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld over time, making it even tastier after a day or two. This salad can last up to three weeks when properly stored. However, for best quality, consume it within the first week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Pea Salad contains roughly 291 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2018mg per serving (88% 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, you can use frozen peas for a fresher taste and texture. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then cool them in ice water before adding to the salad. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crispness.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This Super Pea Salad is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. To enhance the recipe, you can use a vegan-friendly sugar alternative if desired, ensuring it aligns with your dietary preferences.
How can I make this salad spicier?
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce for a zesty flavor boost. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference for the perfect kick!
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).