Irish Pea Salad
Earthy, vibrant, and refreshing, Irish Pea Salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. This salad combines bright green peas with crisp onion, sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese, all brought together by a herbed yogurt mayo dressing. It’s not only easy to prepare but also an excellent choice for picnics and gatherings, sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy days.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of Irish cheese and herbed yogurt mayo creates a deliciously rich dressing that enhances every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or a light lunch option, this salad suits various occasions.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from eggs and fresh herbs, this dish offers both taste and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge for enhanced flavors before serving.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Irish Pea Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Strainer
- Spoon for mixing
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Strainer: Helps remove excess water from soaked onions and thawed peas for optimal texture.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures smooth chopping of vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
Earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onion, sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese with a delightful herbed yogurt mayo dressing make this salad irresistible.
Main Ingredients
- 1 20-oz. package frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped
- 2 4 mini sweet peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (I used Dubliner, but aged cheddar works well too)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or other plain yogurt)
- 3 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
- About 1 1/2 Tablespoons finely chopped MIXED fresh tarragon, thyme and basil leaves
How to Make Irish Pea Salad
Step 1: Thaw the Peas
Pour the frozen peas into a large mixing bowl. Add cool water to them. Stir occasionally while you prepare the other ingredients to help break up any frozen chunks.
Step 2: Soak the Onions
In a separate small bowl, soak the chopped onion in water for about 15 minutes. After soaking, drain both the peas and onions very well using a strainer. Dry out the large mixing bowl by wiping it with a clean towel.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once drained, return the peas and onions to the large mixing bowl along with the remaining salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In the small bowl used for soaking onions, mix together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold in until all veggies are coated. Cover your salad and refrigerate until it’s time to serve.
This delightful Irish Pea Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Serve Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad is a versatile dish that shines at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or a family dinner, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.
As a Standalone Dish
- Serve it chilled as a refreshing side on hot days.
- Pair with crusty bread for a light and satisfying meal.
With Grilled Meats
- This salad complements grilled chicken beautifully, offering a crunchy contrast.
- It also pairs well with grilled sausages, enhancing the savory flavors.
At Potlucks and Picnics
- Bring Irish Pea Salad to share at potlucks; it’s easy to transport and feeds a crowd.
- Pack it in individual containers for picnics, making it convenient for everyone.
Paired with Soups
- Serve alongside a hearty vegetable soup for a light yet filling lunch.
- It also goes well with creamy potato soup, adding texture and flavor.
As Part of a Buffet Spread
- Include it in a buffet line-up alongside other salads for variety.
- It can provide a colorful option next to heavier dishes like casseroles.
How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad
To elevate your Irish Pea Salad, consider these helpful tips for the best results.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest peas and herbs possible for optimal flavor.
- Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your preferences.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for enhanced flavors.
- Add Crunch: For extra crunch, consider mixing in some chopped celery or nuts.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Irish cheese is traditional, feel free to try feta or goat cheese for different tastes.
Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad
Irish Pea Salad pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to grill.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring warmth and richness to the meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer hearty comfort alongside this light salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and is packed with nutrients.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and beans make an attractive side.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins can balance the savory notes of the salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Irish Pea Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the onion can lead to a harsh flavor. Soak it for 15 minutes to mellow its taste.
- Using unseasoned peas: Frozen peas should be thawed properly but don’t forget to season them lightly. A pinch of salt enhances their natural sweetness.
- Overmixing the salad: Gently fold the ingredients together. Overmixing can make the salad mushy and spoil its texture.
- Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor. Using dried herbs instead will not give you the same vibrant taste.
- Neglecting to chill: Skipping refrigeration before serving can result in a less flavorful salad. Allow it to chill for at least an hour for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep leftovers in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Freezing Irish Pea Salad
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Note that freezing may change the texture of the peas.
Reheating Irish Pea Salad
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often, but be cautious not to overcook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Irish Pea Salad:
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used! Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the salad.
How long does Irish Pea Salad last?
It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Is Irish Pea Salad suitable for picnics?
Absolutely! Its portability makes it a perfect addition to any picnic spread.
What can I substitute for Irish cheese?
Aged cheddar or any sharp cheese works well in place of Irish cheese.
Final Thoughts
Irish Pea Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. It’s easy to customize with different vegetables or cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting taste!
Irish Pea Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Irish Pea Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines earthy green peas with sweet onions, crunchy peppers, and creamy Irish cheese. Tossed in a herbed yogurt mayo dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, delighting your taste buds while providing a nutritious option packed with protein from eggs and fresh herbs. Serve it chilled on warm days or as a colorful side alongside grilled meats for a delightful meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 20 oz frozen peas
- 1 cup chopped sweet onion
- 2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and chopped
- 4 mini sweet peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Irish cheese (like Dubliner)
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
- About 1 1/2 Tablespoons finely chopped MIXED fresh tarragon, thyme and basil leaves
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen peas in a large mixing bowl with cool water.
- Soak the chopped onion in water for about 15 minutes; drain both peas and onions well.
- In the large bowl, combine peas, onions, chopped eggs, sweet peppers, and Irish cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix all dressing ingredients until smooth; pour over the salad mixture and gently fold to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
