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The base of a great pea salad starts with fresh or frozen peas. Here’s what you need: - 2 cups fresh peas or 2 cups frozen peas (thawed) - 1 cup cucumber, diced into small cubes - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped - 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped finely - 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste These ingredients bring bright flavors and colors to the dish. The peas give a sweet crunch. The cucumber adds a refreshing bite. Red bell pepper and red onion offer crispness and zing. Feel free to get creative! Here are some tasty add-ins: - Avocado for creaminess - Cherry tomatoes for a burst of color - Nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for crunch - Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor These optional ingredients can add new layers to your salad. Try mixing and matching based on what you like! This pea salad is not only tasty but also healthy. Here’s the breakdown per serving: - Calories: 150 - Protein: 5g - Carbohydrates: 10g - Dietary Fiber: 4g - Fats: 10g The salad is packed with vitamins and minerals. Peas are a great source of protein and fiber. This makes the salad filling and nutritious. You can enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal. For the full recipe, check out Refreshing Minty Pea Salad. To start, you need fresh or frozen peas. If you use frozen peas, make sure they are thawed. Drain them well to remove excess water. If you prefer fresh peas, blanch them. Boil a pot of water and add the peas for 2-3 minutes. This brightens their color and keeps them crisp. Then, quickly move the peas to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain them again. This step ensures your peas are sweet and crisp in the salad. In a large bowl, gather all your chopped veggies. Add the prepared peas, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Toss in the chopped mint leaves as well. Mixing these ingredients lets their flavors shine. Use a gentle motion to avoid mashing the peas. This keeps every ingredient whole and adds to the salad's look. The bright colors make your dish pop, too. For the dressing, take a small bowl. Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mixing these ingredients well helps create a smooth dressing. Once it’s ready, drizzle it over the salad mix. Toss everything together gently. You want all the veggies coated without breaking them apart. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Give it a light toss to combine. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. This method ensures a fresh and flavorful dish every time. For the full recipe, check out Refreshing Minty Pea Salad. Fresh herbs can elevate your pea salad. I love using mint because it adds a cool taste. You can also try dill or basil for a different twist. Just chop the herbs finely to help them mix well. Start with a small amount, then taste and add more if needed. If you want the best flavor, make the salad a few hours ahead. Letting it sit allows the flavors to blend. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, take it out and toss it gently again. This way, your salad tastes fresh and vibrant. Preparation is key to a great salad. Always wash your vegetables well. Cut them into small, even pieces for a nice bite. For the peas, blanch them quickly to keep their bright color. Mix the ingredients gently to avoid smashing them. Presentation matters, so serve your salad in clear bowls. This lets the colorful ingredients shine. For the full recipe, check out the Refreshing Minty Pea Salad. {{image_4}} Cheese adds flavor and creaminess to pea salad. Feta cheese gives a salty kick and pairs well with peas. Goat cheese adds tang and smoothness. Cheddar brings a sharp taste that contrasts with sweet peas. Each cheese can change the salad's flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses to create your own blend. Adding protein turns your salad into a full meal. Grilled chicken offers a hearty bite and is easy to cook. Crispy bacon brings a smoky flavor and a nice crunch. Tofu is a great option for a vegan salad. It soaks up flavors well and adds a soft texture. Choose your favorite protein based on your taste and diet. The dressing can change your salad's vibe. A simple lemon and olive oil mix keeps it fresh. Try adding honey for sweetness or Dijon mustard for a kick. If you want something creamier, use Greek yogurt or sour cream. Experiment with herbs like dill or basil in your dressing. These additions can elevate your salad. For the full recipe, check out Refreshing Minty Pea Salad. Store leftover pea salad in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh for up to three days. If you notice any liquid, drain it before storing. This helps prevent sogginess. Always taste before eating leftovers. If it smells or tastes off, throw it away. Use glass containers for the best storage. They do not absorb odors. They also help you see the salad easily. If you prefer plastic, choose BPA-free options. Ensure seals are tight to keep air out. This keeps your pea salad fresh and tasty longer. Freezing pea salad is not the best option. The texture of peas can change when frozen. If you choose to freeze, write the date on the bag. Use it within one month for the best taste. Thaw it in the fridge before serving. Add fresh herbs and dressing after thawing for extra flavor. Yes, you can use frozen peas. They are just as tasty. Make sure to thaw them first. This helps keep the peas tender and bright. Frozen peas are often picked at peak ripeness. This means they can taste just as good as fresh. To make this salad vegan, skip the feta cheese. You can replace it with avocado for creaminess. Another option is to use a vegan cheese. This keeps the dish flavorful while making it plant-based. You can also add chickpeas for extra protein and texture. Pea salad pairs well with grilled meats, like chicken or fish. It also goes great with sandwiches or wraps. For a light meal, serve it alongside crusty bread. This salad can brighten any meal. - Full Recipe: Refreshing Minty Pea Salad 🥗 This article covered the key ingredients of a tasty pea salad and optional add-ins. You learned step-by-step instructions for making it. Tips to enhance flavor and ideas for variations added more depth. We also explored the best ways to store leftovers and answered common questions about the salad. Pea salad is versatile, healthy, and easy to prepare. Now you can enjoy making your own refreshing minty pea salad!

Pea Salad

Looking for a fresh and colorful side dish? Discover delicious pea salad recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor! This nutritious salad features fresh peas, crisp veggies, and optional add-ins for a unique twist on taste. Perfect for gatherings or a light meal, it's a dish everyone will love. Click through to explore creative ideas and elevate your dining experience with this vibrant pea salad!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh peas or 2 cups frozen peas (thawed)

1 cup cucumber, diced into small cubes

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped finely

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Peas: If using frozen peas, ensure they are thawed and drained thoroughly. For fresh peas, blanch them by placing in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Drain well.

    Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the peas, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped mint leaves, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until completely emulsified and smooth.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well coated without mashing them.

          Add Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it a final gentle toss to incorporate the cheese without breaking it apart.

            Taste and Adjust: Sample the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

              Let it Marinate: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, which will give time for the flavors to blend harmoniously before serving.

                - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                  - Total Time: 20 minutes

                    - Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint on top for an extra touch of freshness.