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Irish Pea Salad brings together the natural sweetness of peas with crunchy sweet onions and peppers, all coated in a creamy, herbed yogurt dressing. It makes a refreshing and colorful addition to any meal, perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a vibrant side dish. Ready in just over half an hour and packed with fresh ingredients and protein, it balances taste with nutrition effortlessly.
Ingredients
- Frozen peas: 20 ounces pull from the frozen section for convenience and sweetness
- Chopped sweet onion: one cup soaking it in water softens its bite and adds crunch
- Two hard-cooked eggs: peeled and chopped enrich the salad with protein and creaminess
- Mini sweet peppers: four seeds removed and chopped add vibrant color and mild sweetness
- Shredded Irish cheese: one cup such as Dubliner or aged cheddar for a sharp, nutty flavor
- Light mayonnaise: quarter cup helps bind the dressing without heaviness
- Plain Greek yogurt: quarter cup provides tang and creaminess while keeping it lighter
- Sweet pickle relish: three tablespoons adds a subtle, sweet-tart pop
- Sugar: one teaspoon balances acidity and enhances flavors naturally
- Salt: half teaspoon enhances all the ingredients gently
- Spicy brown mustard: one teaspoon adds a bit of warmth and depth
- Fresh mixed herbs: about one and a half tablespoons including tarragon, thyme, and basil for a fresh, aromatic finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Thaw the peas:
- Soak frozen peas in cool water while you prepare other ingredients so they become tender but stay firm and sweet
- Mellow the onion:
- Place the chopped sweet onion in water for about 15 minutes to soften its sharpness and add gentle crunch
- Combine the base ingredients:
- Drain the peas and onion well then mix them in a large bowl with the chopped eggs, sweet peppers, and shredded cheese
- Prepare and mix dressing:
- In a separate bowl whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, pickle relish, sugar, salt, mustard, and chopped herbs until smooth and combined
- Fold the dressing in:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture and gently fold everything together until the salad is evenly coated without smashing the peas
- Chill before serving:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving
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I love the fresh herbs especially tarragon because they add an unexpected lift that brightens the whole dish. I still remember making this for my aunt who usually dislikes salads but asked for seconds with shining eyes.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to enjoy fresh flavors. Stir gently before serving again as some liquid may settle at the bottom. This salad does not freeze well because the dairy and fresh ingredients lose their texture when thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Irish cheese on hand use a sharp aged cheddar for a similar tang and texture. For herbs substitute with freshly chopped dill or parsley which also pair nicely. Use Dijon mustard instead of spicy brown if you prefer a milder flavor. Low-fat mayonnaise can be swapped with avocado or extra yogurt for a lighter dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled meats or fish to add a refreshing contrast. It also works wonderfully as a sandwich or wrap filling or spooned atop toasted bread with extra herbs for a light lunch. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the plate.
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Cultural Context
Irish Pea Salad features ingredients common in traditional Irish cooking like peas and aged cheddar cheeses. The use of herbs such as tarragon reflects a modern twist while keeping simple, fresh elements prized in Irish cuisine. It’s a flavorful salute to country-style salads that are hearty yet fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What gives this salad its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from a blend of plain Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise, which together create a smooth and tangy dressing.
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Simply blanch them briefly in boiling water, then cool before mixing in to maintain their vibrant color and tenderness.
- → How do the herbs influence the salad’s flavor?
Fresh tarragon, thyme, and basil contribute subtle aromatic notes that brighten the overall taste and complement the sweetness of the peas and peppers.
- → Is it necessary to soak the onions before mixing?
Soaking the chopped sweet onion in water helps mellow its sharpness, ensuring a balanced flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- → What variations can be made to this salad?
You can swap the Irish cheese for aged cheddar or omit eggs for a lighter option. Adding chopped fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice enhances freshness.