Irish Pea Salad

Earthy green peas, crunchy sweet onion, sweet peppers, and creamy Irish cheese come together in this delightful Irish Pea Salad. This easy recipe is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. Packed with flavor and a unique herbed yogurt mayo dressing, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Irish Pea Salad
• Step 1: Thaw the Peas
• Step 2: Soak the Onions
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
• How to Serve Irish Pea Salad
• As a Side Dish
• In a Wrap
• On Toasted Bread
• In a Picnic Box
• As a Standalone Meal
• How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Irish Pea Salad
• Reheating Irish Pea Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Irish Pea Salad special?
• Can I customize my Irish Pea Salad?
• How do I make Irish Pea Salad ahead of time?
• What can I serve with Irish Pea Salad?
• Is Irish Pea Salad healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of peas, crunchy veggies, and creamy cheese creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal or as a light lunch on its own, this salad fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein from the eggs, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Portable Picnic Option: This salad is easily transportable and holds up well during outdoor events.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Irish Pea Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Strainer
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Strainer: Use a strainer to easily drain the peas and onions after soaking.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of the veggies for even pieces.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertop while making food preparation safe and efficient.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Irish Pea Salad:

• 1 20-oz. package 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 (I used Dubliner, but aged cheddar works well too)
• 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 thaw them. Stir occasionally while prepping the other ingredients to break up any frozen chunks.

Step 2: Soak the Onions

In a separate smaller bowl, soak the chopped sweet onion in water for about 15 minutes. Drain both well using a strainer. Dry out the mixing bowl by wiping it with a clean towel.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once drained, pour the peas and onions back into the mixing bowl along with the rest of the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine everything well.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In the same bowl you soaked the onions in, mix together all dressing ingredients. Pour this dressing over your salad mixture. Gently fold it in until all veggies are coated. Cover the salad and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

This simple yet flavorful Irish Pea Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or picnic!

How to Serve Irish Pea Salad

Irish Pea Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or just looking for a light meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your salad experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats for a refreshing complement.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to add a creamy contrast.

In a Wrap

• Use it as a filling for wraps with lettuce and turkey for a delicious lunch.
• Spread on pita bread topped with extra herbs for added flavor.

On Toasted Bread

• Spoon onto toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer.
• Top with additional herbs or cheese for extra flair.

In a Picnic Box

• Pack it in individual containers for easy transport.
• Include some crackers or sliced baguette on the side.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy it by itself for a light and nutritious dinner option.
• Add some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier.

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How to Perfect Irish Pea Salad

To ensure your Irish Pea Salad is absolutely delightful, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like tarragon, thyme, and basil enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust salt and mustard according to preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this melds the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Dubliner cheese is fantastic, trying different cheeses can give unique results.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds for an extra crunch that complements the peas perfectly.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like bacon bits or avocado for variation.

Best Side Dishes for Irish Pea Salad

Pairing side dishes with Irish Pea Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides protein that balances the salad’s creaminess.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add texture and are always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the salad’s flavors wonderfully and is perfect for scooping.
4. Cucumber Salad: A fresh cucumber salad adds crunch and lightness, making it a great pairing.
5. Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the salad.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A herbed quinoa pilaf introduces wholesome grains that round out the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Irish Pea Salad, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Not thawing peas properly – Failing to thaw frozen peas can lead to a watery salad. Ensure you soak them in cool water while prepping other ingredients.
• Skipping onion soaking – If you skip soaking the sweet onion, it may taste too strong. Soak it in water for about 15 minutes for a milder flavor.
• Overmixing the salad – Overmixing can mush the peas and eggs. Toss gently to keep the ingredients intact and appealing.
• Using stale ingredients – Freshness matters! Always check that your herbs and cheese are fresh to enhance flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Tastes vary; don’t hesitate to adjust salt and mustard per your preference for a perfect flavor balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Irish Pea Salad

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its creamy dressing, which may separate when thawed.

Reheating Irish Pea Salad

• Oven – Place in a baking dish covered with foil at low heat until warmed through, but this is not typically needed.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between sessions if necessary. Be cautious, as reheating changes texture.
• Stovetop – Gently warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Again, this method is less common since it’s best served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Irish Pea Salad special?

Irish Pea Salad stands out due to its combination of fresh ingredients like green peas and herbs, paired with creamy Irish cheese that adds richness.

Can I customize my Irish Pea Salad?

Yes! You can add other veggies like cucumbers or swap out the cheese for your favorite variety.

How do I make Irish Pea Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Irish Pea Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread alongside sandwiches and fruit.

Is Irish Pea Salad healthy?

With fresh vegetables and yogurt dressing, it’s packed with nutrients while being lower in calories compared to traditional mayo-heavy salads.

Final Thoughts

Irish Pea Salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile and delicious. Its combination of earthy flavors and creamy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies for an even more delightful experience!