Are you looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than a classic pea salad! This simple yet elegant recipe has been a staple in many households for years, and for good reason. The combination of sweet and tender peas, tangy creaminess, and fresh herbs is a match made in heaven.
But why settle for just one recipe when you can have 17 more? In this article, we’re going to take the classic pea salad to the next level by incorporating different flavors, textures, and ingredients. From smoky paprika to crispy prosciutto, these creamy pea salads with fresh herbs are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends.
Classic Creamy Pea Salad with Bacon
This classic salad combines sweet peas, crunchy bacon, and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its creamy texture and smoky flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the peas, crumbled bacon, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for bacon)
Lemon Dill Pea Salad with Feta
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of fresh peas, the brightness of lemon, and the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a hint of dill. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green peas
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the green peas and stir until they’re well coated with the dressing.
3. Stir in chopped dill and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado Pea Salad with Lime Dressing
This salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of peas, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen works too)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and fresh peas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the avocado-pea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek Yogurt Pea Salad with Mint
A refreshing and light salad perfect for warm weather, this Greek yogurt pea salad with mint is a great addition to any meal or picnic. The tanginess of the yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peas and the cooling effect of the mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh garden peas
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the peas and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the peas to soften.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt and salt until smooth.
3. Add the chopped mint leaves to the yogurt mixture and stir well.
4. Fold the yogurt-mint mixture into the pea mixture until everything is well combined.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Pea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the spiciness of sriracha, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. The spicy kick from the sriracha is balanced by the creaminess of mayonnaise and the crunch of chopped scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the peas, mayonnaise, and sriracha sauce. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped scallions, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Roasted Garlic Pea Salad with Parmesan
This vibrant salad combines sweet roasted garlic with tender green peas, crunchy parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 heads of garlic
– 1 cup fresh green peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook green peas according to package instructions or steam them until tender.
4. In a bowl, combine roasted garlic, green peas, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Curried Pea Salad with Golden Raisins
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of golden raisins with the creamy heat of curry powder, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its vibrant green color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the peas, golden raisins, and curry powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and salt.
3. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the pea mixture and stir until combined.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pea and Radish Salad with Buttermilk Dressing
This refreshing salad combines sweet and crunchy peas with spicy radishes, all tied together with a tangy buttermilk dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (shelled)
– 2 cups radishes (thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas and radishes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Pour the dressing over the pea-radish mixture; toss to coat.
4. Stir in buttermilk until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pea Salad with Toasted Almonds and Tarragon
This vibrant salad combines sweet peas, crunchy toasted almonds, and the subtle flavor of tarragon for a delightful summer side dish. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (such as sugar snap or garden peas)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 cups mixed greens (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the peas to the bowl and gently fold until well coated with the dressing.
3. Stir in the chopped almonds and tarragon.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add mixed greens if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Smoky Paprika Pea Salad with Grilled Corn
This refreshing summer salad combines sweet grilled corn, tender peas, and a smoky paprika dressing for a flavorful and healthy side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine peas, grilled corn, olive oil, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This Pea and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is a refreshing and nutritious side dish or light lunch, perfect for warm weather. With the sweetness of peas, creaminess of quinoa, and tanginess of lemon tahini dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, peas, red onion, and mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and tahini until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pea Salad with Crispy Prosciutto and Pecorino
This refreshing pea salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, elevated by the crunch of crispy prosciutto and the tanginess of pecorino cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices prosciutto, torn into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Pecorino cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss prosciutto with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine peas, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and toss to coat.
5. Add crispy prosciutto and grated Pecorino cheese. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pea and Cucumber Salad with Dill Yogurt Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of peas and cucumbers with the tanginess of dill yogurt dressing, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, chopped dill, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the yogurt dressing over the pea and cucumber mixture, tossing gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Pea Salad with Pickled Red Onions and Feta
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of peas with the tanginess of pickled red onions and the creaminess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup pickled red onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas, pickled red onions, and feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle mint leaves over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Pea and Chickpea Salad with Cumin Vinaigrette
This colorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a healthy snack. The combination of sweet peas, creamy chickpeas, and tangy cumin dressing will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas, chickpeas, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, cumin, and salt.
3. Slowly pour the olive oil into the lemon-cumin mixture while whisking until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pea-chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Pea Salad with Roasted Red Peppers and Basil
This refreshing pea salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the added smokiness from roasted red peppers. It’s an ideal side dish for your next BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cups cooked and cooled red bell peppers (roasted according to package instructions)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peas, roasted red peppers, and chopped basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on roasting time)
Pea and Farro Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the nutty flavor of farro, all tied together with a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to become a springtime staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned okay too)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using water or broth. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked farro, pea mixture, and parsley in a large bowl. Drizzle with lemon herb dressing and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pea Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of peas with the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy pine nuts, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh garden peas
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine peas, chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Add garlic to the dressing and stir well.
4. Pour the dressing over the pea mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (excluding chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to green up your salad game! This collection of 18 creamy pea salad recipes features fresh herbs and exciting flavor combinations. From classic pairings like bacon and dill, to international inspirations like Greek yogurt and mint, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish, these recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative, and pea-ify your salads!
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