Classic Southern Pea Salad is a vibrant dish that brings together the crisp, refreshing flavors of peas, bright veggies, and a creamy dressing that feels like a hug on a plate. Imagine diving into a bowl filled with colorful ingredients that crunch, pop, and blend together in harmony. refreshing cucumber feta salad This dish is perfect for picnics or family gatherings, where the laughter is as abundant as the deliciousness on your plate.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Classic Southern Pea Salad
- How to Make Classic Southern Pea Salad
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients are essential for Classic Southern Pea Salad?
- How do I prepare Classic Southern Pea Salad?
- Can I make Classic Southern Pea Salad ahead of time?
- How long does Classic Southern Pea Salad last in the fridge?
- Conclusion for Classic Southern Pea Salad:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I serve Classic Southern Pea Salad, I’m transported back to summer barbecues at Grandma’s house where we devoured this salad like it was the last food on Earth. The tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables are not just comforting but also evoke fond memories of carefree days spent in the sun. irresistible crack corn salad Trust me; you’ll want to make this salad your go-to side dish for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Southern Pea Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- The unique flavor profile combines sweetness and tanginess that will delight your taste buds.
- With its stunning visual appeal, this salad can brighten up any table setting.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
- For more inspiration, check out this Blood Orange Salad recipe
Ingredients for Classic Southern Pea Salad
For more inspiration, check out this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Green Peas: You can use frozen peas too; just thaw them before mixing in. They add the perfect bite!
- Red Bell Pepper: Dice it finely for that sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
- Green Onion: Chop these for a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas.
- Celery: Adds a satisfying crunch; go for fresh stalks to get that crisp texture.
- Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand here; it’s essential for binding everything together in creamy goodness.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a dash adds a zesty kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings brightness and balances the richness of mayonnaise beautifully.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness rounds out the flavors nicely; adjust to your liking!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Southern Pea Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies
Start by washing all your fresh produce under cool running water. Once clean, chop the red bell pepper, green onion, and celery into small pieces. Set them aside while you focus on bringing all those gorgeous colors together.
Step 2: Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, combine your peas (fresh or thawed frozen), red bell pepper, green onion, and celery. Gently fold them together so they mingle nicely without losing their crunch.
Step 3: Create the Dressing
In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Taste-test it—this might be where you decide whether you need more sugar or vinegar based on your preferences.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over your vegetable mixture and stir gently until everything is coated evenly in that creamy goodness. Ensure no pea gets left behind!
Step 5: Chill Out
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for at least an hour (or longer if you can resist) to let those flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve your Classic Southern Pea Salad, give it one last gentle stir before transferring it onto plates or a serving dish. It’s best enjoyed cold!
Whether it’s summer barbecues or cozy family dinners you’re preparing for, this Classic Southern Pea Salad will surely steal the show! Who knew something so simple could bring back such warm memories while tantalizing your taste buds? Happy feasting!
You Must Know
- This amazing Classic Southern Pea Salad offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for barbecues but versatile enough for picnics or potlucks.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your veggies and herbs first, so they’re ready to mix in when the time comes. While the peas are boiling, chop your onions, peppers, and celery. This way, you’ll have everything done efficiently without losing your culinary momentum.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this salad! Swap out green peas for chickpeas or add diced bell peppers for an extra crunch. You can also throw in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Classic Southern Pea Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a good stir. There’s no need to reheat, as it’s best served cold!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture, make sure not to overcook your peas; they should be tender but still vibrant green.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure a flavorful dish.
- And remember, this salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours!
I remember the first time I made Classic Southern Pea Salad at a family gathering. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star! It’s become my go-to dish for every barbecue since then.
FAQs:
What ingredients are essential for Classic Southern Pea Salad?
For a delicious Classic Southern Pea Salad, you will need fresh or frozen peas, diced bell peppers, chopped red onions, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also include hard-boiled eggs for added texture and protein. transform salad haters recipe Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste while keeping the essence of this classic dish.
How do I prepare Classic Southern Pea Salad?
To prepare Classic Southern Pea Salad, start by cooking the peas until they are tender but still bright green. Drain and cool them completely. In a large bowl, combine the peas with diced bell peppers, red onions, and any other desired vegetables. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Combine everything and chill before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Can I make Classic Southern Pea Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly make Classic Southern Pea Salad ahead of time! This dish actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to develop more fully. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
How long does Classic Southern Pea Salad last in the fridge?
Classic Southern Pea Salad can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness and flavor. If you notice any change in smell or texture, it’s best to discard it. Always check for freshness before consuming leftover salads.
Conclusion for Classic Southern Pea Salad:
Classic Southern Pea Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh peas with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing. It is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience. This salad not only offers great flavor but also serves as a versatile side dish for various meals. cracked out pea salad Remember to refrigerate leftovers properly and enjoy them within a few days for the best taste experience! Celebrate this classic recipe at your next gathering!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Classic Southern Pea Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Classic Southern Pea Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines sweet peas with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing for a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also visually appealing. With its simple ingredients and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress your guests at any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped green onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Wash and chop the red bell pepper, green onion, and celery into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the peas, diced bell pepper, green onion, and celery. Gently fold to mix.
- In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
