Pea Salad

There’s something quietly comforting about a simple bowl of peas dressed up just enough to feel special. This pea salad is the kind of recipe people come back to again and again because it’s easy, familiar, and fits right into real life. It works for busy evenings when you want something fresh without much effort, and it’s just as welcome on a cozy family table. The flavors are gentle but satisfying, with a balance that feels both light and filling. I usually make it while tidying up the kitchen, letting it chill as the rest of dinner comes together. It’s practical, flexible, and one of those dishes that never feels out of place.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about comfort without complication. The flavors are creamy, slightly sweet, and familiar, making it easy for both kids and adults to enjoy. It comes together quickly with everyday ingredients, so it’s weeknight-friendly and budget-conscious. You can make it ahead, tuck it into the fridge, and pull it out when you need something ready to go. Leftovers hold up well, which makes it great for lunches or small gatherings. It’s also flexible enough to adapt to what you already have on hand. That’s why this pea salad often becomes a saved pin—cozy, crowd-pleasing, and reliable when life feels busy.

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Ingredients

Tip: Frozen peas work best here because they’re sweet, tender, and easy to keep on hand.

  • 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Start by thawing the peas fully and draining off any extra moisture. Chop the celery and red onion into small, even pieces so every bite feels balanced and not overpowering.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, with no streaks left behind.

See also  Spaghetti Salad

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the peas, celery, and onion to the bowl. Gently fold everything together, watching as the peas get evenly coated without being mashed or broken.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Cover the bowl and let the salad rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This short chill helps the flavors settle and gives the texture a slightly firmer, refreshing feel.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This recipe fits easily into packed schedules because there’s no cooking involved and very little cleanup. You can prep it earlier in the day or even the night before and let it chill until needed. It stores well, travels easily, and tastes just as good the next day, which makes it ideal for planning ahead.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let the peas drain well before mixing. Extra moisture can thin the dressing and make the salad watery. A quick pat with a paper towel helps keep the texture creamy and satisfying instead of loose.
  • Chop the onion finely and evenly. Large chunks can overpower the mild sweetness of the peas, while smaller pieces blend in and add flavor without sharpness.
  • Taste after chilling, not before. The flavors change slightly as the salad rests, and adjusting salt or lemon juice at the end gives you better balance.
  • Use a gentle folding motion when mixing. Stirring too hard can crush the peas and turn the salad mushy instead of fresh and textured.

Variations

Meaty Version
For a heartier option, stir in small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey. Keep the pieces bite-sized so they blend well with the peas. This turns the salad into something more filling without changing its easy, comforting feel.

Vegetarian Option
Add diced hard-boiled eggs or small cubes of mild cheese for extra protein and richness. These additions keep the salad meat-free while making it more satisfying and suitable as a light main dish.

See also  Pea Salad Recipe

Ingredient Swap
If you’re out of celery, try chopped cucumber or bell pepper for crunch. Both add freshness and texture without overpowering the dressing or changing the overall balance too much.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can lift the whole dish. Add them just before serving for a clean, bright flavor that makes the salad feel a little extra without much effort.

Serving Suggestions

  • Simple Family Dinner
    Serve it alongside baked chicken or roasted vegetables for an easy, balanced meal. The cool, creamy texture pairs well with warm, savory dishes.
  • Potluck Favorite
    Spoon it into a wide bowl and sprinkle a little fresh herb on top. It travels well and looks inviting on a shared table without needing much styling.
  • Lunch Plate Addition
    Add a small scoop next to sandwiches or wraps. It brings color and freshness to a simple lunch without feeling heavy.
  • Cozy Weekend Spread
    Serve it with crackers and sliced vegetables for a relaxed, snack-style meal. It works well when everyone’s grazing at their own pace.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage
    Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days, and the flavor often improves slightly as it rests.
  • Reheating
    This dish is meant to be enjoyed cold. If it feels too firm straight from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
  • Freezing
    Freezing isn’t recommended because the dressing can separate and the peas may lose their texture once thawed. Fresh storage gives the best results.
  • Make-Ahead Tips
    You can prepare it a day in advance and store it covered. Give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture and redistribute the dressing.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Rest Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
See also  Chicken Salad Recipe with Grapes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 220–260 per serving
Protein: 6–8 grams
Key nutrients include fiber and vitamin C from the peas. Values are estimates and can vary depending on exact ingredients, brands used, and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, it can be made up to one day in advance.

Not draining the peas well, which can water down the dressing.

You can use plain yogurt or a mayo alternative if needed.

Stir in a small splash of lemon juice or milk to loosen it.

Up to three days when stored properly.

Conclusion

This pea salad is one of those recipes that quietly earns a place in your regular rotation. It’s easy to make, easy to adjust, and fits into so many different meals without feeling repetitive. You can tweak the ingredients, play with flavors, or keep it simple depending on the day. That flexibility is what makes it comforting and reliable. Whether you’re planning ahead or pulling something together at the last minute, it’s a dish that feels familiar in the best way. Save it, remake it, and let it adapt to your kitchen and your table.

Pea Salad Save
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Pea Salad

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Salad Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups frozen peas, thawed

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup diced celery

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  • Thaw the peas completely and drain well to remove excess moisture.
  • In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Add peas, celery, and red onion. Gently fold until evenly coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.

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